A homeless man who had been living in a tent in Weston-super-Mare died alone – and no-one found his body until it had severely decomposed.

Forensic tests showed the body, which was discovered by a member of the public in Bleadon Hill, belonged to Peter Harrison, who was believed to be 59 years old and homeless when he died.

A post-mortem examination was not able to establish how Mr Harrison died because of the extensive decomposition to his body.

Emergency services were called to the area after the discovery of his body around 3.20pm on August 15 last year.

His tent was a five-minute drive to Weston General Hospital and just yards away from homes in the area.

An inquest last week into his death heard Mr Harrison, of no fixed abode, was found lifeless in the tent.

In conclusion, Avon Coroners Court heard his death could not be ascertained because the remains were in an “advanced state of decomposition”. An open conclusion was reached.

Did you know Mr Harrison? Get in touch with the Bristol Post to share your tributes to him.

The Bristol Post is joining with the Bureau of Investigative Journalism (TBIJ) on a landmark project called Dying Homeless.

The aim of the project is to count the number of people who have died on our streets and to tell their stories.