A teenager who went missing two months ago has been found dead in the River Medway.

The body of 17-year-old Benjamin Phillips, from Chatham, was found in the river near New Hythe Lane, Larkfield.

He was reported missing on Wednesday, February 1, having last been seen during the evening of Saturday, January, 28.

It is thought he had been staying with a friend at the time and, with no permanent address, had been described as a sofa surfer by those who knew him.

An inquest, which opened and adjourned on Thursday, was told the teenager died of drowning.

Benjamin was found after someone called 999 just after midday on Thursday, March 22, and reported seeing a body.

The police marine unit and firefighters were sent to the scene, near a commercial and industrial unit.

Identification was initially difficult as it is thought he could had been in the river for some time.

The short inquest hearing was told that fingerprint matches were used for identification.

Kent Police had issued an appeal for information after becoming increasingly concerned about Benjamin's whereabouts.

Did you know Benjamin? Leave your tributes below, call the newsroom on 01634 227828 or emailmedwaymessenger@thekmgroup.co.uk