REDDITCH police met with the town's black community to allay fears after the recent death of an Abbeydale man found in Arrow Valley Lake last week.

At the meeting on Thursday police aimed to provide reassurance and respond to concerns about the unexplained death of Clarence Mead, known as Doc.

Mr Mead's body was found six days after he was reported missing from his home on Sunday, July 31.

Former Redditch Mayor Madge Tillsley, who chaired the meeting, said police were very thorough in their explanation about the investigation and the community was satisfied with the answers they were given.

West Mercia's Independent Advisory Group member and chair of the Black Minority Ethnic group, June Sutherland, said the community was offered some reassurance that Mr Mead's death was not suspicious.

She said: "Questions were answered frankly and honestly. It's been a very sad time for the community and we now hope Doc will rest in peace."

Redditch divisional commander Chief Inspector Angie Burnet said: "It was clear how much Clarence meant to everyone and how well respected he was within the community."

Police are not looking for anyone else in connection with Mr Mead's death but are still appealing for anyone who saw Mr Mead on or around July 31 to contact them on 08457 444888.

l AN inquest into Clarence Mead's death was opened yesterday.

The hearing at the County Coroners' Court in Stourport-upon-Severn was to be adjourned to a later date.