A 'TRUE gent' was found by his friend in Christchurch.

Ryan Thomas Payne was confirmed dead by paramedics after his friend called for an ambulance to Druitt Road, Christchurch on July 29, 2023.

Senior coroner for Dorset, Rachael Griffin, opened the inquest into his death at Bournemouth Town Hall on February 13.

Coroner’s officer, Philippa Morgan, told Dorset Coroner’s Court that Ryan lived on Jellicoe Drive in Christchurch but was found unresponsive by his friend on Druitt Road.

Dorset Police arrived at the scene at 2.06pm and arrested a 29-year-old man who was known to Ryan on suspicion of murder but later released him with no charge or further action. 

Police cordons blocked off the road with six police cars, two ambulance and two crime scene investigation vehicles being seen outside the property.

READ MORE: Investigation after man found dead in Druitt Road, Somerford

Dorset Coroner’s Court heard that police do not believe there was any third-party involvement into Ryan’s death.

He was formerly identified by his mother at Holly Tree Lodge Mortuary in Bournemouth.

A post-mortem examination conducted by Dr Purjuy found Ryan’s provisional cause of death to be delayed effects of two types of drugs.

A Go Fund Me, titled In memory of Ryan Payne, was set up following his death and has raised almost £14,000 for a memorial fund.

Organiser of the fundraiser, Ryan Pope, said Ryan was a ‘friend to so many and a brother to us all’, describing him as a ‘true gent’.

He added: “He will be sadly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him, but none other than myself who was lucky enough to share so many wonderful memories together, like so many of us did!

“My thoughts and prayers go out to all family and friends that have been affected by this tragic loss.”

Burton Youth Football Club also shared a tribute on their social media saying they are ‘shocked and saddened’ by the sudden death of the former player.

Phil Coffin, Ryan’s team manager at the time, said he was a ‘cheeky chappie’ with an infectious laugh.

The full inquest into his death was adjourned until April 3 at 10am.