Detectives have launched an inquiry after the discovery of a woman's body in a village in west Norfolk.

Detectives have launched an inquiry after the body of a woman was discovered in a wooded area in a quiet west Norfolk village.

Officers were called at 4pm today (Tuesday) after a passer-by made the discovery in woodland off Barnard's Lane, Watlington, between King's Lynn and Downham Market. Forensic officers were sent to the scene and the area has been sealed off.

A tent has been placed over the woman's body in a bid to preserve the evidence and it is understood that it will remain at the scene until forensic tests, which will resume in the morning, are complete.

A police spokesman said the woman's death was being treated as “suspicious and unexplained”. But police would not be drawn on whether a murder investigation has been launched.

The police spokesman said: “The area has been sealed off and forensic officers will be returning in the morning. The identity and age of the woman is not known at this stage.”

It is understood the body was found off a gravel lane in a quiet area of woodland. It is believed that the land is privately owned.