AN investigation has been launched after a 29-year-old man was found stabbed on the forecourt of a petrol station.

Emergency services were called to the Shell garage next to the Bell pub on Ley Street, Ilford at around 3.15am Saturday, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police believe they know the identity of the man, but are waiting to tell his next of kin before formal identification takes place.

No arrests have been made, but a blue Ford Focus with the registration EJ57 OED was recovered at the scene and officers are keen to trace anyone who may have seen it prior to the incident.

Investigating officer DCI John Sandlin, from the Homicide and Serious Crime Command unit, said: "I am keen to hear from anyone who saw a blue Ford Focus in the Ilford area on Friday, 2 November, or in the early hours of Saturday morning.

"We believe that two women got out of the Ford Focus while the altercation was occurring. I need to trace those women.

"I also wish to speak with anyone who had been in The Bell pub that evening as well as anyone who saw the altercation at the Shell petrol station."

A post mortem is due to take place shortly.

Anyone with information should call the incident room on 020 8345 3865 or to remain anonymous call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.