A murder hunt is on after a decomposing body was found at a woodland beauty spot in north-east London.

The remains of a man were found at Hollow Ponds in Epping Forest on Wednesday night.

Partially buried and wrapped in plastic, the body was spotted by a passer-by at around 7pm in undergrowth off Whipps Cross Road, in a wooded area close to Whipps Cross University Hospital.

A post-mortem examination has revealed the man was murdered, with detectives saying the body could have been there for several weeks.

Detective Chief Inspector Jamie Piscopo, who is leading the investigation, said: "Hollow Ponds is a busy and popular local beauty spot, with a cafe and a boating lake.

"It is also surrounded by a number of busy roads, including Whipps Cross Road. We would like to speak to anyone who may have been in the area the last several weeks, and may have witnessed any unusual or suspicious activity, to come and speak to us."

Police have identified the victim, whose body was removed on Thursday, saying his next of kin have been informed.