The discovery was made by a local man in woods off Craigavon Road, Hylton Castle, Sunderland.

The cause of death remains unknown although a police investigation has been launched and the area is cordoned off.

Northumbria Police said the body was found at 5.50pm yesterday and inquiries would be continuing throughout today.

Detectives have not ruled out that the death was suspicious.

Two police cars remained in front of the taped-off area early today.

A path leads into the woodland next to the entrance to Hylton Dene Park, where there is play equipment for children. The wood is also a short distance from historic Hylton Castle.

Mathew Knott, 26, who lives nearby with his wife Carly, 31, their two sons, aged four and 10, spoke to police on duty after the body was discovered.

He said: "Normally my wife walks through with the dog, Chico, and I walk through with the kids. I spoke to the police because I was concerned if it was safe.

"I've heard rumours that it's not safe. My wife used to walk Chico on her own. We'll think twice before we go in and I'll go with her."

Mr Knott said the police had advised him that it was not safe for a lone woman to walk through woodland alone.

So far, the police have refused to speculate on the cause of death.

Anyone with information about the incident can contact Northumbria Police, tel: 03456 043 043 or contact Crimestoppers, tel: 0800 555 111.