Hastings: Image Released Of Unidentified Man

17 February 2014, 11:16 | Updated: 17 February 2014, 11:21

An artist's impression of an unidentified man whose badly burned body was found in a ravine 17 years ago has been published in the hope that his relatives will come forward.

Sussex Police believe the dead man, who was discovered in Ecclesbourne Glen, Hastings, on January 19 1997 was aged between 21 and 25.

The image, compiled by the UK's National Missing Persons Bureau (MPB), shows a facial reconstruction of what the victim would have looked like before he died.

Sussex Police said there were no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and an inquest recorded a verdict of suicide. The image has also been published on the force's website.

Detective Inspector Jon Gross said: "Even after all these years it would be good to identify him and give any relatives some peace of mind and closure.

"We will certainly consider publicising other unidentified bodies in this way, but on the basis of a case-by-case assessment.''

The man was white, 5ft 10in and of stocky build. He was wearing blue jeans, a black jumper, an Adidas hat and black Dr Marten shoes, a police spokesman said.

He was also carrying toothpaste, a grey toothbrush, deodorant, a bar of white soap, a Sony Discman and headphones, a blue lighter, music magazines, The Sun newspaper dated December 9 and 10 1996, adult magazines, #270 in cash, a large blue holdall and a watch made by Hana Time, Hong Kong, the MPB said.

Anyone with information which may help identify the man should call the UKMPB on 0845 000 5481 or email missingpersonsbureau@nca.x.gsi.gov.uk

Sussex Police can be contacted on 101 or by email at 101@sussex.pnn.,police.uk quoting serial 774 of 13/2.