THE death of a man who had sustained serious head injuries in central Bournemouth is being investigated by police.

Officers were called to a block of flats on Mannington Place, off Commercial Road, at 8.40am on Sunday following reports that 44-year-old Daniel Sanford had collapsed in a communal hallway.

An ambulance crew tended to Mr Sanford at the scene before rushing him to Southampton General Hospital.

He was pronounced dead at 7pm.

Police remained at the property yesterday where the scene was cordoned off and forensics officers searched for clues.

Detective Inspector Joe Williams, of Bournemouth CID, said: “It is not clear at this time how Daniel sustained his injury so we are trying to determine exactly what happened.

“I am keen to hear from anyone who has knowledge about Daniel's movements from Saturday morning to when he was found on Sunday morning.

“I am interested in speaking with anyone who saw him during this time, or anyone who knew him.”

Neighbour Craig Guest, 24, said he had seen a heavy police presence at the address on Sunday and was shocked to hear somebody had died.

“When I came down to put out the rubbish there were police cars everywhere and throughout the day officers were going in and out of the property,” he added.

“We had no idea what was going on.

“It is worrying to see so many police around investigating something this serious so close to home."

Adrian Hewitt, who owns nearby Tico's Cafe Bar, said: “We do have problems around here so it is not unusual to see the police - but this takes it up a level.

“It is very sad to hear the man has died.”

No arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

The coroner and Mr Sanford's next of kin have been informed.

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 28:124. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.