A man found dead in woods more than a month ago has now been identified.

An investigation was launched by police following the discovery of a body near Ashford in April.

Officers were initially unable to identify the man, who was listed as “unknown male” when an inquest into his death opened in Maidstone last month.

But now – six weeks after the tragic discovery in Issac Wood, near Kingsnorth – the coroner’s court has confirmed the body to have been that of Thomas Payne.

The inquest opening was told he had been found dead by a member of the public on Monday, April 3.

The witness, who had been in the area with his children, immediately called emergency services, who attended and confirmed the man had died.

Area coroner Katrina Hepburn told the court the cause of death had been given as suspension.

She added that efforts were being made to identify the man, adding “we will hopefully have an update soon”.

Mr Payne’s identity has now been confirmed, but details of his age or where he lived have not been released by the court.

The inquest was opened and adjourned to be heard at a later date.