POLICE were today trying to discover what killed a man man found dead in a popular park after his identity remained a mystery for 24 hours.

The partner of Sean Russell, 32, of Gisburn Road, Barnoldswick, formally identified him today after a widespread appeal to help discover who he was.

Detectives said the cause of Mr Russell's death remains a mystery after he was found at the entrance to the pavilion in Victory Park, Barnoldswick, at 8pm on Saturday.

A member of the public discovered the body but Mr Russell had no identification on him.

A post mortem examination was due to be carried out today to try and find out how he died.

The scene was immediately cordoned off by police until mid afternoon yesterday.

Det Sgt Steve Mounsey said: "We are not treating it as suspicious but the cause of death is not known at this stage."

It is understood there were no signs of injury to Mr Russell, who was taken to Burnley General Hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

An extensive investigation was launched as police appealed for help in identifying Mr Russell, who was described as being heavily tattooed, with a shaven head and ginger goatee beard. Visitors to the park were kept well away from the scene until the blue and white tapes were removed in the afternoon.

The nearest houses are in West Close Road but separated from the park and pavilion by St Joseph's Catholic primary school.

One of the residents said: "There has been no police activity up here as far as I know. When I came home last night it was obvious something had happened but that is all I know."

Acting East Lancashire Coroner Richard Taylor has been informed.

Barnoldswick councillor Jacqueline Taylforth said it was a sad thing to have happened.

She added: "The park itself and the pavilion area are well used by local people. It is a big area used by children and people taking part in sports.

"It is a little bit isolated from housing but as far as I am aware we have not had complaints about any misuse of the park or anything like that."

County councillor for Barnoldswick David Whipp said: "It is tragic that someone as young as 32 should die in these circumstances. It is a quiet sort of area at night time and as far as I am aware we have no complaints about anything untoward down there."

A woman answering the door at Mr Russell's address was too upset to comment today.