AN INQUEST has opened into the death of a “gentle giant” found dead in a stream.

The body of Shawn Williams 42, was discovered near Springford Road, Coxford, Southampton, on July 20.

Police are treating his death as murder and arrests have been made as part of their inquiries.

But the inquest, which has been adjourned, heard how the criminal investigation was “ongoing”.

Speaking at the hearing, Detective Constable James Richardson, of the Major Crime Team, said 6ft 5in Mr Williams, from Woolston, was beaten up as he walked through the Northam estate on the morning of Saturday, July 3.

He suffered head injuries and the amb-ulance service called the police about the assault. But Mr Williams discharged himself from Southampton General Hospital hours later. His decomposing body was found in woodland more than two weeks after the attack.

Southampton coroner Keith Wiseman said the pathologist who carried out the post mortem “found it quite difficult” because of the length of time after Mr Williams had died.

Seven boys – one aged 15, three 16 and three 17 – and two men, aged 18 and 21, have been arrested and bailed until December 15.