Human body parts have been discovered at a British beach as police launch an investigation into the bones.

Suspected human remains were uncovered on Seaburn Beach near Queen's Parade in Sunderland on Good Friday.

Specialist officers were at the scene following a report just before 1.30pm.

Northumbria Police later confirmed an investigation is underway as officers treat the discoveries as unexplained.

A spokesperson for Northumbria Police said: "We have received reports of bones or suspected body parts being found at Seaburn and Roker beaches in Sunderland over recent weeks.

"We have now confirmed that some of these are human and we are currently treating the discoveries as unexplained."

The bones were discovered just weeks after suspected human remains were found on Marine Walk, near Roker Beach.

Northumbria Police did not confirm which beach human remains were discovered at.

However, the force revealed enquiries will continue and further updates will take place at a later date.

A spokesperson added: "Enquiries remain ongoing and we anticipate it will take some time before we are able to provide any further updates.

"Anyone with concerns or information can report these to police using the 'Report' page of our website.”

Northumbria Police said it had been called shortly before 10am that day and was working on the basis of the bones suspected of being human.

Local reports confirmed the force's marine unit were working on the beach, with officers seen carrying long orange sticks across the sand.

Detectives are still investigating the remains discovered on February 13.