FOUR people have been arrested on suspicion of murder after a man was found dead in a town centre car park.

Police launched an investigation after the man - believed to be a rough sleeper - was found in St Mary's Car Park shortly before 9am on Monday.

Three men, aged 47, 45 and 32, and a 46-year-old woman, were arrested on suspicion of murder overnight.  They remain in police custody.

The car park has been closed since the discovery and is set to remain shut for between one and two days.

Police officers were able to allow people with urgent requirements to access their cars from 6.30pm last night.  

Anyone with vehicles still parked within the car park is asked to attend the to collect their vehicles, where they will be assisted by officers.

Motorists should should make alternative arrangements and Colchester Council has issued a list of their other car parks online.

Essex Police are still appealing for information to be given to the  North Major Investigation Team on 101 quoting incident number 224 of April 23.