Officers 'saddened' by constable's death

The body of Constable Kevin Hughes was found at a building site in Penley near Ellesmere on Sunday by a member of the public who raised the alarm.

Today West Mercia Police said the body had been formally identified as being Mr Hughes, who had worked with Whitchurch police for 22 years.

Top officers from West Mercia Police have paid tribute to the 45-year-old officer, who lived in Penley with his partner Carole Formby.

Acting Superintendent Martin Whitelegg, of West Mercia Police, said: "My colleagues and I at West Mercia Police were all deeply saddened to hear of Constable Hughes's death, particularly considering the time of year.

"Our thoughts are with Carole and the rest of his family and friends at this time and also with his co-workers at West Mercia Police."

Mr John Hughes, coroner for north east Wales, today confirmed an inquest on Mr Hughes had been opened and adjourned to a date to be fixed.

The coroner said the cause of death had been established at a post mortem examination as asphyxia caused by hanging.

Police have said they are investigating the officer's death but are not looking for anyone else in connection with it.

Mr Hughes is believed to have been divorced and had two teenage children living in the Wrexham area.

It is thought that his body was discovered by a dog walker who raised the alarm at about 9am on Sunday.

Police and paramedics attended the scene but were unable to save him.

Mr Hughes's partner of three years Carole Formby yesterday paid tribute to him and described him as her "soul mate and best friend". She said he was a fantastic father to his children.

Tributes from councillors in the Whitchurch area have also been made while further tributes were made on the internet.

Peggy Mullock, Shropshire Council member for Whitchurch north, said she had known Mr Hughes for many years.

She described him as a lovely man and a good and conscientious police officer and said it was sad news.

By Tom Johannsen and Iain St John