The parents of a teenage boy who was found dead an Oxford park, told today how they were devastated by the loss of their son.

Richard Jackson, 16, from the Chipping Norton area, was found dead in Angel Meadow on Friday night. Police are still investigating his death.

They want to talk to a man described as chubby, aged 28 to 35, 5ft 6in tall, with short dark hair, seen leaving the park at about 7.30pm - an hour before the body was found.

The family's solicitor Mark Lowen said: "Mr and Mrs Jackson are devastated at the loss of their son Richard. He was a loved child who will be greatly missed. "Richard was recently going through a very difficult time in his life, as many young people do at his age.

"Since his departure from the family home, Mr and Mrs Jackson had been trying to maintain contact with Richard, providing him with the love and support that all three of them have shared throughout his life."

Mr Lowen said Mr and Mrs Jackson separated after Richard left the family home, but the two matters were not linked, and Richard was unaware of the split.

"Richard was unaware that his parents were separating and Mr and Mrs Jackson separated for reasons unconnected with Richard," he said.

"Mr and Mrs Jackson would like to say how appreciative and very grateful they are for the support of friends and family at this difficult time." Shortly before Richard's death he was staying at the Bridge Project for the homeless in Iffley Road, Oxford.

Anyone with information is asked to call the police on 01865 266333.

Story date: Thursday 04 February

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