The body of a man was discovered by a mother and her two children walking to school.

See also: Photos: Mother and children find body in churchyard

Police launched an investigation following the discovery in a Black Country churchyard.

The body was discovered at St John The Baptist Church in Queensway at 7.30am.

Two police tents were today set up in different parts of the Halesowen churchyard as forensic experts launched a probe into the death.

Detectives confirmed the death is being treated as suspicious.

A cordon has been put in place around the churchyard while officers carry out inquiries.

West Midlands Police said the victim has not been identified and a post mortem will take place in due course to determine the cause of death.

Shopkeepers today said they were shocked at news of the discovery.

They were speculating whether the death was linked to a problem with drugs in the area.

The churchyard near the busy town centre was cordoned off as officers searched for clues about the death.

The body was found close to the war memorial in the graveyard.

Witnesses are urged to contact officers at Halesowen CID police station on 0845 113 5000.