A grieving man told his mum he was “going to the beach to talk to his father” hours before he was found dead.

Toby Foster, 29, died at the seafront near Reculver, Herne Bay, on April 28, after failing to return to his Ashford home.

An inquest opening into his death at Oakwood House, Maidstone, established how concerns were raised after he did not return after leaving the night before.

Coroner Sarah Clarke said: “At the time, Mr Foster told his mother he was going to the beach to speak to his father.”

His dad had sadly died in December last year, with the funeral held the following month, and he had been living in Herne Bay when he died.

At 6.39 am on April 28, police were called to the seafront promenade, where Toby was found unresponsive – prompting a large emergency service presence.

A walkway was blocked off, and the nearby Ocean View car park was filled with police vehicles, including forensic investigation vans.

Members of the coastguard were also at the scene.

The cause of death was subsequently provided as multi-drug toxicity.

Born on September 27, 1995, in London, Toby was a store manager, and news of his death sparked an online tribute page, full of pictures and stories from loved ones.

His mum, Lisa, wrote: “Can't believe you've gone, I'm so broken without you, you were my best friend, my soul mate.

“My world will never be the same without you in it, I miss you so much, son forever in my heart.”

His aunt, Cheryl, added: “Heaven has gained a beautiful soul. Forever in our hearts, and missed more than you will ever know.”

A full inquest will be held on November 19 at Oakwood House.