An inquest has opened today into the death of soldier Josh Thomas, 18, who was found in the River Medway after a 19-day search.

Josh, who was born on Armistice Day, November 11, 1994, vanished on a night out in Rochester, prompting a hunt by thousands of people.

His body was found floating by Rochester Pier on Monday, yards from where he disappeared.

A post mortem examination confirmed the suspected cause of death was by drowning.

The details were revealed today at a brief inquest hearing.

It was told police identified the Sapper through the clothes he was wearing on the night he vanished, and tattoos and documents on his person.

Coroner's officer Christopher Kemsley said: "On April 9, 2013, he went out for an evening with friends when he had just passed exams.

"He became extremely intoxicated and was seen on CCTV staggering down the dual carriageway, unable to hold his head up.

"He was last seen going into Gas House Road. He was reported missing by the Army the following day.

"At 12.44pm [on Monday] a body was seen floating in the River Medway. Police attended and the body was recovered."

The inquest was adjourned until a full hearing, which will not be held for several months.

However, the soldier's body has now been released to his family, from Neath, South Wales, who will be allowed to hold a funeral.

More than 4,000 people joined a Facebook page set up by family and friends after the Sapper was last seen at the City Wall wine bar.

With the help of local firms they printed more than 10,000 flyers and posters.

The page has now become a memorial. A post yesterday said: "We would like to thank everyone for their comments and respect."

Members of the Royal School of Military Engineering at Brompton Barracks, where Josh was stationed, put together a photo memorial to their colleague.

Specially-trained officers there have been offering support to Josh’s family.

The Sapper was due to visit Germany this summer for his first tour of duty.

A Royal Engineers spokesman said: “The regiment is devastated at the loss of this bright young soldier, and the thoughts of everyone at Chatham go out to his family and friends.”

The incident has prompted calls for more safety measures around the bridge, where the river's fierce current is dangerous for even strong swimmers.

Speaking before Josh's body was found, his cousin Kara Bowman, 21, said: “He was very caring. He was always up for a laugh, very determined. He always like to do well in what he did, he always liked to be right."