A POLICE investigation has been launched after the body of a 20-year-old-man was found lying at the side of the railway tracks near Nelson Station.

The body of the man, who is said to have been residing in the Nelson area, was found at 9.41am yesterday. British Transport Police, who are leading the inquiry into his death, have not released any information as to his identity.

They said his close family had been told of his death but that no further information would be given out until other family members had been informed. Det Chief Insp Jackie Cracknell, of British Transport Police, said: "At present the circumstances of how the male came to be there is unexplained and we would urge anyone who has information which could help the British Transport Police with this inquiry to call us on 0800 405040."

Nelson Station was closed throughout the day and trains were travelling as far as Burnley with special buses provided to take people further afield.