POLICE are stepping up inquiries after a body was found on fire at Belvue Park, Northolt today (13).

Officers were alerted at 4.37am by the London Fire Brigade, who were first summoned to the scene, which is off Ealing Road and close to the A40.

They are working to identify the victim, who is believed to be male, so they can inform his next of kin.

No arrests have been made.

Det Chief Insp Claire Hine, senior investigating officer, said: "This is a complex and fast-moving investigation and we are working to piece together the events that resulted in this person losing [his] life.

"Our top priority at this stage is identifying the person involved so the family can be informed. We are also carrying out house-to-house inquiries and reviewing CCTV to build a timeline of who was in the area at the time.

"Officers will be in the park for some time and I would like to thank the community for their understanding as we carry out our thorough investigation.

"I would encourage anyone with information about what happened to come forward."

Chief Supt Sean Wilson, responsible for policing in Ealing, said: "Like many people, I am shocked and saddened by this dreadful news and I recognise it will cause considerable concern in the community. I can assure you we are doing all we can to work out what happened.

"There is no information at this time to suggest there is any wider risk as a result of this incident and I would ask the public to avoid speculating about the circumstances while our investigation takes place.

"An increased number of officers will be in the area over the coming days to provide reassurance and listen to your concerns."

Anyone with information that could help the investigation is asked to call 101 quoting CAD 952/13Jun. To remain anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.