The community of an Oxfordshire town is in shock after a dead body was found by a river.

Thames Valley Police were called to Lower Wharf in Wallingford just before 12.50pm on Saturday afternoon (August 24). 

A man in his 40s was confirmed dead at the scene with South Central Ambulance Service and Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service at the site as well.

TVP taped off the scene and closed the road as emergency services arrived at the scene which the cordon being lifted on Sunday morning.

READ MORE: Police reveal reason why road near Tesco superstore was taped off

The River Thames in Wallingford on Sunday morning. (Image: Newsquest)

A spokesperson for the force said: "We were called following reports that the body of a man had been located near the Boat House.

"Very sadly, a man aged in his 40s was confirmed deceased at the scene by South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust.

"The man’s next of kin have been made aware and are being supported by officers.

"The thoughts of all of Thames Valley Police are with his family at this very difficult time.”

Katharine Keats-Rohan, the Liberal Democrat county councillor for the Wallingford ward, was shocked by the news and remarked that it was rare for such a tragic incident in the town.

READ MORE: Body found next to River Thames in Oxfordshire

Lower Wharf was taped off by police officers on Saturday.Lower Wharf was taped off by police officers on Saturday. (Image: Newsquest)

“It is a tragedy and especially when it is somebody that isn’t very old,” she said.

"Our feelings are very much with the family and our heart goes out to them at such a sad time.

“It is always sad when such tragic things happen and these things do happen, but not regularly, I am happy to say but yes, it’s a really sad event.”

Town residents and the wider Oxfordshire community have been rocked by the news with several people paying their respects to the deceased.

“I know I’m a complete stranger but I just wanted to say that I am sending all my love to your family and friends,” said one person.

READ MORE: Missing south Oxfordshire woman found safe

The river is largely used for recreational activities.The river is largely used for recreational activities. (Image: Newsquest)

Another added: “Thinking of the family involved.”

Police confirmed that the man was not previously reported to them as a missing person and that Lowland Rescue Oxfordshire did not assist them on Saturday.

Officers also revealed that they do not believe that the death was related to a recreational water activity incident.

“There was no evidence to suggest the man had been out on the river recreationally,” added a spokesperson for Thames Valley Police.

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The force is still investigating the incident at present, but the case will be passed over to the coroner once it has concluded.

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