Police are appealing for information after a man in his 70s was found dead at his home this morning.

Officers were called to a cottage in Headcorn Road, which links Headcorn and Biddenden, just before 9am.

Named locally as Roy Blackman, the victim's death is being treated as suspicious and officers are asking anyone who may have seen anything between 7.30pm last night and this morning between Weeks Lane and Frittenden Road to contact them.

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Mr Blackman was aged in his 70s and is believed to have run several businesses in the area, including a burger van and car repair company.

Forensic detectives from the Serious Crime Directorate remain at the scene.

Drius Svedas, who works at the hand car wash in Headcorn Road, told KentOnline: "It's very shocking. I've known this man for a year now.

VIDEO: Pensioner found dead in village. Ben Kennedy reports

VIDEO: There is a heavy police presence at the scene.

"He's a very good man, he's a good neighbour and is very friendly. He never caused us any problems."

A neighbour, who didn't want to be named, added: "This is the last thing you'd imagine happening on your doorstep.

"We have lived here for 15 years and it is very, very sad. We are Christians and wouldn't want this to happen to anyone.

"Our thoughts are with his friends and family."

Paul Arnold, who had stopped to get something from a nearby burger van, said: "I got here about an hour ago and saw all the police. One of the ladies in the van told me a man had died.

"It's terrible, you don't think it could happen in a local community like this."

A manager at a nearby car garage has confirmed the incident is ongoing.

Residents have taken to Facebook to pay tribute to a "hard-working man" who was well known within the local community.

Drivers have reported seeing five police cars outside a property, which is opposite the Chart Hills Golf Club.

Det Insp Lee Whitehead from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate said: "Officers have been at the scene throughout the day and our presence will remain as our inquiries continue.

"The area is fairly rural, but I’m hopeful that someone may have seen or heard something such as suspicious vehicles or people, and that they can report it to us."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate on 01303 289600.

Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 quoting incident reference 21-0203.