Reward of £20k offered over man's woodland death

A £20,000 reward has been offered in connection with the murder of a 45-year-old man who was discovered in woodland on a common.

Ernest Deputat's body was found close to the wildlife reserve in the centre of Southampton Common on 8 October where police said there was also evidence of a fire.

The Crimestoppers reward is for anyone with information to come forward anonymously, the charity said "no matter how minor it may seem, you can tell us what you know and remain 100% anonymous - guaranteed".

Mr Duputat had been living on the common close to the wildlife reserve in the centre of the common north of the Ornamental Lake.

The Crimestoppers charity said: "Ernest was a Polish national, who was living off-grid and known to the homeless community in the city.

"His family have been notified, and a murder investigation has been launched by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary. At this time, no suspects or motive have been established.

"The tragedy has deeply affected both the victim's loved ones and the wider community."

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is supporting his family. The force's major crime team continues to investigate his death.

Officers previously appealed for anyone who saw smoke or a fire near the nature reserve in recent months to come forward.

During the Park Run on the common on 11 October, neighbourhood policing officers spoke to participants and put up posters with QR codes linking to a website where people can submit information.