A MAN and woman are in custody following the discovery of a body in Risca.

A dead man was found at a flat on Holly Road in Ty-sign, Risca, at around 10.45am yesterday.

The death is believed to be suspicious but police would not confirm rumours that the man was stabbed in the neck.

This morning the Elm Drive block of flats was sealed off with police guarding the scene. And forensic officers were carrying out tests at the flat where the body was found.

Neighbours said the dead man was in his fifties and was a well known local man who has not yet been named by police.

A 54-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman were arrested and remain in custody at Newport Central police station this morning.

It is believed they are originally from the Caerphilly area and now live in Holly Road, Risca.

Risca East councillor Betty Toomer said: "Everyone I've spoken to is shocked and surprised. But no-one really knows what happened or how."

Police refused to reveal further details and would not confirm how the man died.

Anyone with information is urged to ring Gwent Police on 01633 838999.