AN inquest has opened following the death of a man who was missing for more than two weeks.
On July 17, Richard Middleton, assistant coroner for Dorset, formally opened an inquest following the death of 78-year-old William Graham Thomas, who had been missing since late June.
Dorset Police confirmed that he was missing having last been seen on June 26, and on July 10, the body of a man believed to be Mr Thomas was located.
The court heard that he was found unresponsive at the end of Badgers Walk in Ferndown and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
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Coroner's officer, Sarah Harrison, told Dorset Coroner's Court that Mr Thomas was born in Cheltenham in January of 1948, and at the time of his death, he was married and a retired teacher.
It was added that he was residing at an address in West Moors Road in Ferndown.
Dorset Police have confirmed that there was no third party involvement or suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
It was heard that Mr Thomas was formally identified using CCTV comparison.
Superintendent Claire Phillips, of Dorset Police, said: “Our thoughts are very much with Graham’s family and loved ones at this extremely difficult time.
“I want to thank all those involved in our search efforts to find Graham over recent days as well as the family and members of the local community for the support they have given during this period.”
On July 16, a post-mortem examination was conducted by Dr Stolte at Holly Tree Lodge.
Mr Thomas' provisional cause of death was listed as unascertained.
Mr Middleton has formally adjourned the inquest for a full hearing to take place on October 9 at 12pm.
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