A 40-YEAR-OLD man has been found dead in a garage.

Police were called to the property in Michelbourne Close, Burgess Hill, at about 7pm on Wednesday.

Sussex Police said there were no suspicious circumstances regarding the death and the coroner had been informed.

Residents expressed their shock and sadness after news of the death emerged.

Many had taken to social media to report a heavy police presence the previous night, with residents posting reports of a number of police cars and ambulances in Michelbourne Close.

Following the discovery of the body, many again took to Facebook to tell of their shock.

One person said: “Thoughts go out to the family at this terrible time. Losing the lovable person is so sad. I heard those police cars and wondered what was going on.”

Another wrote: “So very sad. My thoughts are with the man’s family at such a sad time.”

On Wednesday evening the footpath up to Jane Murray Way, near Michelbourne Close, was taped off and seven police cars and a fire engine were on the scene.

One neighbour posted on Facebook on Wednesday night: “I live nearby. Police have been around for about three hours; they are still here and are not saying anything.

“I really want to know what has happened and if I am safe tonight. I have locked all the doors.”

Another wrote: “When I went past a little while ago, police were guarding the footpath.

“There is also police tape, so I am assuming they are guarding evidence or DNA.”

A police spokesman said: “Shortly after 7pm on Wednesday, police were called to a private property in Michelbourne Close, Burgess Hill, where a 40-year-old man had been found dead in a garage.

“There were no suspicious circumstances. The coroner has been informed.”

West Sussex Fire and Rescue confirmed it had been called to the scene, but declined to give further details.