AN investigation into the death of a student who was found in a lake at the University of Reading is underway.

The inquest for Daniel Williams, a Computer Science student, was opened by Berkshire Coroner's Office on Tuesday.

A date for the full hearing is yet to be determined and Heidi Connor, chief coroner for Berkshire, said more time was needed to provide a definitive cause of death.

An exhaustive search for young Mr Williams came to an end after he was found deceased in a lake on the Whiteknights Campus on February 5.

He had vanished after enjoying a night out with friends at the 3Sixty Bar on the same campus a week earlier.

Ms Connor said: "Daniel was born on February 11, 1999.

"He was from Sutton and we are of course all aware of the publicity surrounding Daniel's initial disappearance and searches for him after socialising with friends.

"Post-mortem has been conducted and we are awaiting the results of further tests and do not therefore have a formal cause of death.

"The matter will stand adjourned for an inquest date to be confirmed. I have opened the inquest and would like to offer my sincere condolences to family and friends at this very sad time."

Thames Valley Police confirmed the body found at the university was that of Mr Williams on February 6.

Students and staff held a vigil for the Second Year student and opened a book of condolences.

Others reacted to the death by starting an online petition, calling for safety measures around Whiteknights Lake to be enhanced.

Professor Robert Van de Noor, vice-chancellor, said: "I am proud of the way in which everyone at the university came together to support the search. The response to his disappearance, and support of the appeal, shows the high regard in which Daniel was held.

"I would also like to express thanks on behalf of the whole university to the police, those who helped with the search, and the thousands of people, including the press, who shared the appeal for information.

"I cannot comment on the ongoing investigation and want to stress that we do not yet know the circumstances surrounding Daniel’s death.

"I would not wish to speculate on these circumstances as this would be insensitive to Daniel’s family and friends at this time. Once the investigation concludes, we will review any findings and respond accordingly."