The Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) has started an investigation following the death of a man in custody at Southall Police Station on Friday 18 November 2016.

The man, who is white and in his 50s, was arrested in the Acton area at 10.50am on Thursday 17 November and taken to Southall Police Station.

During a routine check at approximately 6am on Friday there were concerns for the man’s condition, which quickly deteriorated. Medical assistance was provided by police and the ambulance service, but the man was pronounced dead at around 7.30am.

A spokesman for the IPCC said: "The IPCC was informed of the death by the Metropolitan Police Service and an independent investigation was declared at 8.30am" on Friday.

"IPCC investigators have attended the scene and the post incident procedure, where officers and staff from the custody suite are providing initial accounts."

"Efforts are being made to contact the man’s family to inform them of his death. A post mortem is due to take place in the coming days."

Associate Commissioner Tom Milsom said: "My thoughts are with the family and friends of the man and all those affected by his death."

"The investigation, which is in its very early stages, will look at the full circumstances surrounding this incident."