Gardai are investigating the discovery of the body of a man in Co. Meath. The remains were located on a beach near Drogheda this morning.

A member of the State Pathologists Office has carried out a preliminary examination on the body.

The discovery was made at around 9.30am this morning by a woman out walking her dog on Mornington Beach close to Drogheda. The woman alerted Gardai and the location was sealed off.

It is understood that the man aged in his 40s had suffered serious head injuries.

A team from the Garda Technical Bureau is currently carrying out a forensic examination in the area.

The body has been removed from the scene to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda for a post mortem examination which will establish how he died.

Gardai say the results will also determine what direction the inquiry takes. Investigating officers are trying to establish if the man died at the scene or if his body was left here.

Crime Correspondent with the Daily Star Mick O'Toole spoke to Lunchtime here on Newstalk.