An open verdict has been recorded at the inquest into the death of a Lindford man who went missing for more than two months.

Hampshire Police launched an appeal after Ian Phillip Taylor, 75, was reported missing on October 10, 2024. His body was later discovered by a dog walker in woodland off Maple Way, Headley Down, on December 20.

Winchester Coroner’s Court heard Mr Taylor was last seen alive after an argument with his wife of 50 years. He left home and went to a shop to buy a bottle of whisky.

The shopkeeper told the court Mr Taylor appeared “polite and normal”.

The inquest heard empty blister packs of tablets and an empty whisky bottle were found near his body. However, investigators were not able to establish whether he had taken any tablets or consumed alcohol.

The court was told police carried out searches and that Mr Taylor’s family also searched “non-stop” for a fortnight in nearby woodland after his wife reported him missing.

Family members described him as a “loved grandad and dad, and a very good man” who was a “jolly, jovial chap”.

The coroner, Rosamund Rhodes-Kemp, said there was “not sufficient evidence” to conclude Mr Taylor had taken his own life, although the court heard he had been experiencing low mood.

Evidence showed Mr Taylor had struggled to adjust to retirement, missing the work environment and finding it difficult to spend more time at home.

The inquest also heard he had been unhappy after moving from Grayshott to Lindford and “missed the buzz” of seeing people in his former village.

Recording an open verdict, the coroner said: “The only conclusion I can come to, on the evidence, is open. It is not ideal for a family.

“Remember the positives, how cheerful and popular he was.”