AN inquest has been opened into how a Reading man whose body was found near the bank of the River Thames in London died earlier this year.

Duane Denny, aged 46 from Oxford Road, Reading, was found dead in Erith, south-east London, on September 15 after going missing in August.

Since his death was revealed, Nyiah Williams, a 46-year-old man from Hadrian Walk East, Reading, has been charged with his murder.

READ MORE: Emotional tribute paid to loving father Duane Denny

Opening the inquest into Denny’s passing this afternoon, Berkshire coroner Alison McCormick said a post-mortem had been carried out but the cause of his death was still under investigation.

She added: “It is clearly necessary to open an inquest because of the circumstances surrounding Mr Denny suggest he died an unnatural death.

“But because somebody has been charged with a homicide related offence I am obliged to suspend the inquest pending the outcome of a trial.

“I am not reading any details at this time because it is not appropriate for me to do so.”

READ MORE: Man accused of murder holds head in hands as he makes first court appearance

Addressing Denny’s family, who appeared for the inquest opening, Ms McCormick said: “I’m incredibly sorry you have been through such a terrible time in the last few months in terms of what happened to Mr Denny.

“Thank you for being brave enough to come today.”

The inquest was opened -- and subsequently adjourned -- at Reading town hall on Tuesday, October 26.