AN inquest has opened into the tragic death of a Chester dad found in the Dee estuary.

Dad-of-one Shay Hughes, 29, of Prenton Place, was sadly found dead on Monday, October 23, having gone missing nine days earlier amid reports that a man had fallen into the River Dee in Chester.

Warrington Coroners Court was told on Wednesday, November 8, that a witness had reported seeing a man ‘jumping off the Old Dee Bridge into the River Dee’ on October 14.

Cheshire Police and partner agencies searched the area but without success, the hearing was told.

Nine days later, North Wales Police discovered a body at Greenfield Docks in Holywell, following a call from a member of the public.

Mr Hughes was identified by his mum.

An unnatural cause of death was recorded.

Senior coroner Jacqueline Devonish opened an inquest for further work to be completed.

The inquest will be heard on April 18, 2024, with a review taking place on January 7.

A community vigil paying tribute to Shay was held last Wednesday (November 1) in Handbridge, where hundreds of people turned up, lit fireworks and released balloons and sky lanterns.