The body of a man found on Cliffe Marshes has been confirmed as that of missing man Richard Raj.

The 62-year-old vanished from his home in Weatherly Close, Rochester, almost a month ago sparking a desperate appeal by his family.

He was known to enjoy long walks in the countryside, but was diabetic and believed not to have taken his medication.

He had also been suffering from mental health issues.

Two walkers discovered his body in shallow water at the RSPB reserve Cliffe Pools, near Strood, at just before 9am on Saturday.

Police divers and forensic officers were called to Radar Pool, and a post-mortem examination has now confirmed the body was that of Mr Raj.

An inquest, which opened and adjourned this afternoon, heard he was identified by his son.

The cause of death is currently unknown. A full inquest will be held later.

Mr Raj was declared missing on Friday, September 6, from the sheltered housing block where he was living at the time.

Speaking while the search for Mr Raj was ongoing, a family member said he was "a bit of a joker" and "very sociable".