Sudden death of man in Blandford – public appeal

Updated 13 May 2016

At around 1.53pm on Thursday 12 May, police were called to an address in The Plocks.

Officers and the ambulance service attended and discovered the body of a man in his flat. He has been named by detectives as 43-year-old Anthony Taylor.

His next of kin have been informed and the coroner has been notified.

An investigation is underway to establish the circumstances surrounding Anthony’s death.

Anthony was well-known in the Blandford area and would often be seen walking his dog – a brown Cocker Spaniel.

Anthony was white, of slim build and average height. He had a beard and brown hair.

Detectives are urging anyone who saw Anthony between Monday 9 May and 12 May, to come forward.

Detective Inspector Kevin Lansdale, of Weymouth CID, said: “Enquiries are underway as we try to establish the exact circumstances leading up to Anthony’s death.”

A cordon has been put in place at Anthony’s flat while enquiries continue.

Local Neighbourhood Inspector Rob Chalkley, of North Dorset Police, said: “It is important we understand the full circumstances surrounding Anthony’s death and his movements in recent days which is why this appeal has gone out.

“I know Anthony was well-known in the community and would urge anyone who saw him since Monday to call us.

“Officers from the local Neighbourhood Policing Team will be carrying out extra patrols today, Friday 13 May, to offer reassurance to the community.”

Witnesses and anyone with information should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101 quoting incident number 12:230. Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111 where mobile phone tariffs may apply.

Update: A postmortem examination was held on Friday 13 May, and it was established that there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding Anthony Taylor’s death. The matter has been referred to HM Coroner. Mr Taylor’s next of kin have been updated.