Family pays tribute to man found dead in woodland

Ernest Deputat's body was found in a a wooded area on the afternoon of 8 October

The family of a man whose body was found in woodland in Southampton have described him as "a modest, but dream-filled brother and son".

Ernest Konrad Deputat, 45, was discovered at Southampton Common on 8 October, sparking a murder investigation.

In a tribute, written in English and Polish, his family said: "Your smile, accompanying humour and the lightness with which you conducted the conversation made people want to be with you.

"The whole family always missed you and were waiting for you, waiting for your arrival."

The Crimestoppers charity said Mr Deputat, a Polish national, had been living off-grid close to where he was found and was known among the homeless community.

It has offered £20,000 reward for anonymous information leading to a murder conviction.

The family tribute, released through Hampshire Constabulary, said: "You chose the life you wanted - you were both the ship and the captain for yourself.

"Be happy now. We thank you for all the fulfilled moments, for every phone call, for every sign that you remembered us."

The family also asked for privacy and urged anyone with information to contact police.

Det Ch Insp Matt Gillooly said: "First and foremost, my thoughts remain with Ernest's family at this unimaginably difficult time. We will continue to support them.

"This is a large-scale investigation and our hard work continues as we remain committed to determining Ernest's final movements, so that we can achieve answers and justice for his family."