A man found in woodland near Little Plumstead following a missing persons appeal and police search has been confirmed as unemployed 43-year-old David Howell.

Norfolk Police launched an appeal to find Mr Howell, originally from Downham Market, who they considered as 'vulnerable' on February 16, and began actively searching for him. He had last been seen at his home on Norwich Road in Little Plumstead in the early hours of February 14.

On February 17, members of Norfolk Lowland Search and Rescue Team discovered Mr Howell's body about a mile and a half from Little Plumstead, at Blackhill Woods.

MORE: Body believed to be missing man David Howell found near Little Plumstead

At the opening of the inquest into his death this morning area coroner Yvonne Blake said the medical cause of death was hanging. It was confirmed he had been known to mental health services.

The full inquest into his death will take place at Norfolk Coroner's Court on July 24.