Oxford Blackbird Leys community 'shock' as body found in park

Police descended on Spindlebury Nature Park in Blackbird Leys at around 9.15am on the morning of Mothers' Day, Sunday, March 10.

The body of a man aged in his 60s was located after a member of the public reported the discovery to South Central Ambulance Service.

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The man’s death is being treated as unexplained by police, but not suspicious.

Cabinet member for housing, Linda Smith, who has overseen housing development work in the area said: "I was shocked to hear the news.

Linda Smith. (Image: Contribution.)

"It was a nasty shock.

"My thoughts are with the family of the man that was found there.

"It was especially shocking because it was only last week that I was out in Spindlebury park with the police and council officers doing a sweep with the aim of making it a safe place for the community to enjoy.

"So soon afterwards someone had been found dead there."

Shaista Aziz previously served as the cabinet member for safer communities and she currently sits as an Independent Group councillor for the Rose Hill & Iffley ward.

Shaista Aziz. (Image: Oxford City Council.)

She said: "I think it is unusual for this to happen in Oxford.

"That doesn't make it any easier for those connected.

"It is very sad and tragic.

"My thoughts go out to him and his loved ones."

Ms Aziz added she hoped the police could "work on identifying and notifying family" and that they should be "given the space to do their work".

Nestled between Blackbird Leys and Greater Leys, Spindleberry Nature Park is a large area with a pond, stream, semi-mature woodland and pathways leading out to open grass areas.

Maggie Lewis, who is is the area coordinator for Blackbird and Greater Leys Neighbourhood Watch and Parish Councillor for Greater Leys, said:

"We are awaiting more information from the police but understands that the neighbourhood policing team will continue patrols and be in the community.

Police descended on the Oxford park. (Image: Newsquest)

"Whilst, I understand that residents may speculate that the deceased was local, it is only speculation.

"Spindleberry Nature Park is a much-loved and used park in Greater Leys and this will be a surprise and concern to local residents.

"It is important that the police have said that there are no suspicious circumstances and this will give reassurance to the community and I hope this won't deter residents from using the area.

"My sincere condolences are extended to family and friends of the deceased."

A Thames Valley Police spokesman concluded: "Although formal identification has not yet taken place, his next of kin have been made aware and our thoughts are with them at this extremely difficult time.”