A STUDENT was found hanged near allotments in Colchester following a major search around the town, an inquest heard.

Hannah Webster, 20, was discovered by police but could not be saved.

The Essex University student went missing on Thursday, May 11 and concerns were raised about her wellbeing leading to a police search and appeal.

Officers eventually found her hanged from a tree.

An inquest into her death was opened at Essex Coroner’s Court yesterday.

Coroner’s Officer David Dinnell told the court Miss Webster, of Military Road, Colchester, was discovered near the East Bay allotments at 12.50pm on Friday, May 12.

A post mortem examination, at Colchester General Hospital, confirmed the cause of death as pressure on the neck.

Miss Webster was a banking and finance student at the Wivenhoe campus, and originally from Dewsbury, in West Yorkshire.

Following the appeal by police, hundreds of people retweeted details and shared the appeal to thousands more on social media.

Despite attempts to find her alive she was discovered in woodland off a cycle route near the allotments and her death was confirmed at the scene.

The court heard Miss Webster had a history of interactions with mental health services.

Essex Senior Coroner Caroline Beasley-Murray adjourned the inquest for a full hearing on August 9.

She requested a copy of the post mortem examination report, details of her previous contact with mental health services, a copy of the police report and for her family to be given the chance to provide any details they wish.

Essex University offered support to those who knew and loved her following the discovery earlier this month.

Speaking at the time Registrar Bryn Morris said: “Our thoughts are with Hannah’s family, friends and fellow students at this time.”

Sports clubs, the Essex Blades Ultimate Frisbee, also posted: “She will be greatly missed by everyone.

“All our thoughts and prayers with her family and friends at this very sad time.”

Support and advice is available from Samaritans on a free phone number 116 123.