A man found dead outside a block of flats in Surbiton this morning was naked when he was discovered, residents have claimed. 

The man, thought to have been in his 40s, was found on the steps of a converted mansion house in St Leonard's Road at about 6.25am.

Residents living in the block said the man was found naked, lying at the foot of steps leading up to the main entrance of the property.

One woman who was woken when emergency services arrived said he may have been wearing shorts, or could have been covered over with a towel. 

Several people said they believe the man may have fallen from a top floor window.

Pigeon spikes that appeared to have fallen from a window sill on the top floor could be seen outside the main entrance to the property.  

It is understood the dead man did not live in the property, and that the residents who lived in the flat where the man was believed to be staying were not at home at the time of his death. 

A Metropolitan Police spokesman said officers were called at about 6.25am to reports of a man found injured.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His death is being treated as non-suspicious.

The police spokesman added: "Officers believe they know the identity of the deceased and enquiries are underway to inform next of kin."

St Leonard's Road reopened just after 11am. 

Have you been affected by this story? The Mind charity promotes the views and needs of people with mental health problems. Its helpline number is 03001 233 393.

To get in touch with the Samaritans in Kingston, call 020 8399 6676 or drop in at 12 St Andrew’s Road, Surbiton. Samaritans lend a confidential ear to those in distress.