An inquest has opened after a man was found dead in Oxfordshire woodland. 

Dean Speare, of Leach Road, Berinsfield, was found on Sunday, October 6 after a month-long search. 

Mr Speare, 53, was first reported missing on Saturday, September 7, and was found in woodland near the Thames Pathway, Radley. 

An inquest was opened by senior coroner Darren Salter at Oxford Coroner's Court on October 24. 

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His cause of death remains under investigation.

After his body was found, Thames Valley Police offered sympathies to Dean’s family. 

Detective sergeant Nathan Adby, of Abingdon CID, said: “Although formal identification has not yet taken place, we believe this to be Dean. His next of kin have been made aware and are being supported by officers.

“Our thoughts are with the family at this very distressing time.

“The death is being treated as unexplained, but not suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the coroner.”

A full inquest will be held on February 27 next year at 10am.