AN inquest will be held early next year into the death of a popular homeless man found dead in his hostel room.

Ben Kreisler, who battled drug addiction, was found dead in his room at St Paul's Hostel in Tallow Hill, Worcester, after staff battled to revive him.

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His inquest is due to take place at Worcestershire Coroner's Court on January 16 next year.

The 36-year-old died on May 23 and his funeral was held at Hope Church in Worcester on June 30.

We have previously reported how Mr Kreisler's coffin was moved to his favourite spot outside Asda in St Martin's Quarter, Worcester before the funeral service opposite. 

A private cremation was held later that afternoon for immediate family and close friends only.

Hundreds gathered outside Asda to pay their respects to the 36-year-old, laying flowers on his coffin which was already covered in large bouquets.

Celebrated as 'a free spirit', a 'renegade' and a 'kind man' with great intellectual curiosity, some who knew him were weeping and hugging each other while many shared stories about Ben's life and adventures.

Tributes came from Ben's sister Claire Brown, family friend Dave Newman, Kerry Marnell from St Paul's Hostel and Father Brian McGinley from St George's Catholic Church and Minister Jim Harper, who had known Ben Kreisler for 10 years.