The family of Alan Jeal, whose body washed up on Perranporth Beach in late February, have appealed for information regarding his last movements.

The relatives of Alan, who was 64 and from Wadebridge, also released a tribute.

They said: "Alan was a mild-mannered, gentle man who was very interested in minerals, mining and surfing.

"We are shocked and deeply saddened that Alan's life has been cut short and are desperate for answers as to what happened.

"We appeal for anyone with information about Alan’s life and last movements to contact police."

Alan was formally identified on Wednesday, March 5, when two callers, including family members, rang police giving after seeing an artist’s impression released by the force.

A CCTV image has also been released showing the last known sighting of Alan on Monday 24 February, shortly after midday, in Wadebridge town centre.

DCI Dave Thorne, Senior Investigating Officer, said: “Firstly, our thoughts are with Alan’s family and friends at this upsetting time and we will do everything we can to support them.

“Now that we know his identity, we can progress with the investigation and try to find out exactly what happened to him.

“He was last seen on Monday 24 February, the day before his body was discovered, and I would welcome information from anyone who knew Alan, or who saw him in the days leading up to his death.”

Police also released photographs of a Regatta jacket, wallet and photograph, which were found on the beach on Wednesday 26 February, and are believed to be Alan’s.

It is believed that the photograph found in the wallet shows Alan when he was two years old in the family home.

It is not known whether a rucksack and woolly hat, found nearby on the same day that the body was found, are linked to him.

Alan lived alone and was not reported missing to police.

Anyone with information that could assist with the investigation is asked to call police on 101, quoting log 381 of 1 March. Alternatively contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.