A FORENIC dentist was needed to confirm the identity of a decomposed body found in Lower Bentley Lane in Lower Bentley, near Redditch, an inquest heard.

Coroner Victor Round yesterday opened and adjourned the inquest on 45-year-old Christopher Jones, whose body was found in a near-skeletal state on March 27.

Gamekeeper Graham Badger found the remains of the slaughterman under a bridge, which he was checking for safety.

A Smith & Wesson revolver, which Mr Jones would have used in his job, was found by his side and Mr Round confirmed he had died from a gunshot wound to the head.

The Bromsgrove man was separated from his wife and had not been seen alive since last May or June.