A university says it is “greatly saddened” by the death of a student whose body was found on its campus.

Emergency services were called to woodland at the University of Kent in Canterbury following the tragic discovery of 19-year-old Michael Irving.

Police and paramedics were called shortly after 7am on November 20, but the teenager was pronounced dead at the scene.

A University of Kent spokesman said: “We are greatly saddened by the recent death of 19-year-old foundation student Michael Irving.

“Our condolences and thoughts remain with Michael's family and friends at this difficult time.

“We are providing support to all those who knew and studied with him, along with any others in our community affected by his passing.”

The university previously described the discovery as “distressing news” for the entire university community.

A spokesman also said the institution is supporting police with the investigation.

An inquest opened into the death of the student at Oakwood House in Maidstone today.

Coroner Bina Patel told the hearing he lived in Astley, Greater Manchester, and was single.

“Michael last spoke to his mother at 8.30pm on November 18,” she told the court.

But a passer-by found him near a wooded footpath at the Canterbury Innovation Centre on the University of Kent campus – leading to calls being made to emergency services.

He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Ms Patel adjourned the inquest until April 7.