POLICE are trying to identify the remains of a body found on a farm.

Police were called to a wood on Hammonds Mill Farm near the A273 London Road between Hassocks and Burgess Hill after a labourer found the remains of a severely decomposed body.

Tests so far have found the remains are those of a middle aged man and may have been there for several weeks prior to the discovery at 5pm on May 31.

A post mortem has so far been unable to establish a cause of death because of its condition. Forensic research continues and officers are investigating material found with the body.

The death is being treated as unexplained, a police spokesman said.

He added: “There are currently no suspicious circumstances and the death is being treated as unexplained.”

It is understood the police have an idea of who the man is but need more forensic proof before they can confirm his identity.