Michael Lister's body was discovered by a member of the public in the River Roach at Paglesham Reach, on Sunday. He was formally identified by a member of his family on Monday night. A post- mortem concluded death by drowning.

Mr Lister, 61, from Shirley, was last seen on April 30 as he rowed to his boat, the Jenny B, moored at Paglesham Boatyard near Rochford.

Despite an extensive search operation, no trace was found of Mr Lister until two weeks later.

"There do not appear to be any suspicious circumstances," said an Essex Police spokesman. "It appears to be a tragic accident."

An inquest date at Rochford Coroners' Court is expected to be set shortly.