POLICE trying to to identify the body of a man found lying near the A303 at Chilmark have released two pictures.

The body was found in a field off Cow Drove on Thursday at 2pm.

The man, believed to be in his 40s, is described as lean but muscular with greying hair, 5ft 10 ins tall with a prominent, slightly crooked nose.

Despite a forensic post-mortem examination officers are still treating his death as unexplained at this stage.

Det Chief Insp Jeremy Carter said: "We are appealing for anyone who may recognise the description of this man or the jewellery and t-shirt he was wearing to contact us.

"The location he was found is quite an isolated spot and Cow Drove is a very minor road but we know it is widely used by drivers heading into Chilmark from the A303 - as a result someone must have seen something suspicious.

“Our investigation is still at an early stage and we are still uncertain how this man died and how his body ended up in this field.

"We'd still like to hear from anyone else who was in the area: pedestrians, dog walkers, horse riders, anyone that may have information that could be vital.

"I'd also like to re-appeal for drivers who with dash cam footage to contact us."

Central Hub Commander Supt Chris Chammings said: “Local people will notice that the scene preservation cordon has now been lifted.

However, I want to reassure the local community that we are doing all we can to try identify this man and investigate thoroughly how he got there.

"You may still see a more increased police presence in the area.

“It is crucial that anyone with information comes forward and speaks to us.”

Anyone with any information is asked to call Wiltshire Police on 101, alternatively call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be left anonymously. Callers should quote log 150 of September 21 when contacting police.