THE search for a profoundly deaf Kent man is over after his body was found washed up on a beach in Cornwall.

A member of the public walking his dog found the body of Graham Stock near St Austell. It was identified as that of Mr Stock, 52, of the Iron Wharf, Faversham, on December 31. A friend last saw Mr Stock, an architect, on his barge on December 15.

A post-mortem exam was inconclusive and toxicological results are awaited. Police are keeping an open mind but do not think his death was suspicious.

Swale police have said there was no evidence Mr Stock had gone on a holiday. Det Sgt Simon Marsden said: "We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have seen Mr Stock on his way to Cornwall.

"It is believed that he may have travelled by train and feel there may be members of the public who would have seen him on his journey.

"It has been suggested that he may have been given a lift to the train station and I would like to hear from anyone who may have information on this. We are currently trying to piece together Graham's movements leading up to his death and urge anyone who may be able to help us to come forward."

Mr Stock had been in Faversham for four years and worked for a while at Frank and Whittome as a draughtsman. Latterly he had worked in Canterbury. He lost his hearing as a child, could lip read well. He lived alone on his barge but had a close circle of friends.

Anyone who can help with information is asked to call Det Sgt Marsden on 01795 477055 or Swale Neighbourhood Watch on freephone 0808 100 3308.