A BODY found in woodland near Redditch last week is believed to be that of a missing Bromsgrove man who died from a gunshot wound.

A handgun was found near the body, which police say could be that of 45-year-old slaughterman Christopher Jones, who had not been seen since the end of May last year.

The body was found by a gamekeeper on Sunday, March 27, in a shallow pool in Thrift Wood on the Manor Farm Estate, Upper Bentley, near Webheath.

Police said the body had been at the site off Lower Bentley Lane for some time.

Last Wednesday, a post mortem was carried out which confirmed the cause of death as a gunshot wound to the head.

Det Insp Paul Williamson said formal identification could take some time but evidence suggested the body belonged to the missing man.

A police spokesman said Mr Jones had been employed by a number of farmers in the Redditch and Bromsgrove areas to slaughter livestock.

An inquest is due to be opened.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to call West Mercia Constabulary on 08457 444 888 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.