A GAMEKEEPER discovered the skeletal remains of a slaughterman under a bridge, with a Smith and Wesson revolver beside him.

The body of Christopher Jones was found on Sunday, March 27, by a gamekeeper checking bridge safety near Lower Bentley, north west of Droitwich.

Mr Jones, from King George Close, Bromsgrove, was last seen alive in May or June last year, said Worcestershire Coroner, Victor Round.

At the side of the body lay the revolver, which Mr Jones used in his occupation.

Using dental records, a forensic dentist identified the body.

Home Office pathologist Dr Eddie Tapp said the cause of death was a gunshot wound to the head.

The inquest was adjourned with a date to be fixed.