A MURDER inquiry was launched this week after a North hampshire businessman was found dead in a ravine on an Indonesian island.

A body discovered on Lombok is thought to be that of Charles Cunningham, owner of the award-winning Wooldings Vineyard at Whitchurch.

He was reported missing by his mother Daphne after failing to return from a round-the-world trip.

The 47-year-old bachelor had telephoned her on 23 March from Bali to say he would be home on 10 April.

Inquiries by Indonesian police revealed a man's body had been found in a ravine on Mount Rinjani on 28 March and it was thought to be Mr Cunningham.

A Hampshire police spokesperson said various causes of death had been suggested but the investigation was in the hands of the Indonesian police.

News of Mr Cunningham's death sent shockwaves through the town.

Mayor Cllr Norman Tayler said it was 'absolutely dreadful'. The town had lost an amicable and friendly man.

Mr Cunningham had won numerous awards for his wines and last year became the first vineyard in the country to be awarded the prestigious quality Wine Marque.

The 12 acre vineyard produces 25,000 bottles of wine a year.

North West Hants MP Sir George Young, who had known Mr Cunningham for seven years as chairman of the Whitchurch Conser-vatives, described him as a 'kind and engaging man'.

"He was very much part of the Whitchurch community," the MP said. "Our thoughts are very much with his mother Daphne. "I hope the Indonesian authorities in Lombok bring those responsible for this terrible crime to justice."

A statement issued by the Cunningham family appea-led for privacy 'at this difficult and sad time'.

A spokesperson for Hampshire police said a man had been arrested in Indonesia on suspicion of murder.