The inquest opened in Norwich today into the death of Michael Byrne whose body was found in the River Wensum.

Eastern Daily Press: The floral tribute to Mickey Byrne who was found in the river at Carrow Bridge. Picture: DENISE BRADLEYThe floral tribute to Mickey Byrne who was found in the river at Carrow Bridge. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY (Image: Copyright: Archant 2015)

Mr Byrne, 52, was discovered on the morning of December 6 close to Carrow Bridge in the city.

He has since been formally identified by his wife and a detective sergeant from Norfolk Constabulary.

Evidence given to the inquest into his death, said witnesses had seen Mr Byrne, of Norwich Road, jump from the window of a flat into the water.

Four calls were made to the ambulance service by members of the public and paramedics attended, but sadly Mr Byrne was pronounced dead at the scene.

Eastern Daily Press: Flowers at the scene on Carrow Bridge.Flowers at the scene on Carrow Bridge. (Image: Archant)

The medical cause of death has been given as drowning. The inquest will continue at Norfolk Coroner's Court next July.

Mr Byrne's former rugby club previously paid tribute to him.

Pat Carter was chairman of North Walsham Rugby Club's playing committee during Mr Byrne's playing days as a hooker in the late 1990s.

He said: 'Mick was a great stalwart member of the rugby club.

'He played with heart and soul was very committed and generous to the club financially as a sponsor after he stopped playing and will be sorely missed by everybody at the club.

'He was a natural leader, enthusiastic, very popular and a great character.'