A British diplomat has been murdered in Jamaica, the Foreign Office confirmed today.

John Terry was the honorary British consul in Montego Bay, a popular tourist destination.

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: "We can confirm the death of the British honorary consul on Montego Bay in Jamaica.

"Our sympathy is with the family at this difficult time.

"Jamaican police are investigating the circumstances of his death and we're in close touch with them."

Mr Terry, 65, was found murdered outside his house in Mount Carey St James yesterday afternoon, according to news website Go-Jamaica.

He drove home on Tuesday night and his body was discovered at about 1.30pm local time.

He was found with a cord tied around the neck, along with a piece of clothing, and it appeared he had been beaten as bloodstains were found at the premises, police told the news website.

Michael Garrick, deputy superintendent in charge of crime for St James, said early investigations suggest that there was no forced entry.

A note was reportedly left on the victim's bed but police would not divulge the details.

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