A murder investigation is underway after a body was found at the side of a popular dog walking path.

The victim, a man believed to be in his 50s, was found deceased in Aldborough Hatch Farm off Oaks Lanes, Ilford, at about 6am on Saturday, November 2.

His death is believed to have been caused by head injury, following a post-mortem examination at East Ham Mortuary.

Enquiries are underway to establish the man’s identity and to trace his next of kin.

No arrests have been made.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to come forward.

Detective chief inspector Katherine Goodwin, from Specialist Crime leading the investigation, said: “We would like to appeal to anyone who may have used the road or footpath in the area of Aldborough Hatch Farm, off Oaks Lane on the evening of Friday, November 1 and overnight into the early hours of Saturday, November 2.

"It is a route which is very popular with walkers, joggers, dog walkers and cyclists. We need to hear from those who used the path on that day even if you didn’t see anything, as that will help us narrow down the time frame of when this happened.

“In addition we are very interested in hearing from anyone who saw any vehicles acting suspiciously during this time around the area.”

Anyone with information should contact homicide detectives on incident room number 020 8785 8244 or call 101 quoting CAD 1823/02 November.

If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.