Inquest opened into Oxford United player Joey Beauchamp's death

Opening an inquest into the 50-year-old’s death this afternoon, senior coroner for Oxfordshire Darren Salter described the case as a ‘sad’ one.

Oxford Coroner’s Court heard that Mr Beauchamp was found dead at his home in Kingsway Drive, Kidlington, on February 19. His death was verified by a police constable at 1.57pm that day.

His body was later identified to the police by his brother, Mr Salter noted.

Following a post-mortem the cause of the former winger’s death had been given as hanging.

A full inquest will take place on May 17.

The opening of the inquest was attended by a number of reporters, who had dialled into the hearing via a telephone link.

READ MORE:PICTURES: Oxford United's Joey Beauchamp tributes at Kassam Stadium

Mr Beauchamp is widely regarded as one of Oxford United’s greatest players.

He is 10th in the United appearances table with 428 games, and fifth in the all-time Oxford goalscoring chart with 77 goals to his name.

Last month, Mr Beauchamp’s former clubs, teammates and fans paid tribute to the legendary winger.

Flags were flown at half-mast at the Kassam Stadium last Saturday before Oxford’s clash with Cambridge United. The winger’s daughters led players from both sides onto the pitch to lay wreaths behind the goal.

READ MORE: Football always steps up in times of tragedy

U's players and staff wore t-shirts adorned with the legend's face ahead of kick-off as fans' group the Oxford Fanatics unveiled a tribute in the Jim Smith Stand. The poignant tribute was followed by a minute's applause.

Former teammate Ross Weatherstone described him as United’s greatest player.

Another former teammate, Jamie Cook, added: “My hero growing up, and a huge honour to play alongside him. RIP Joey.”

Oxford United boss Karl Robinson said Mr Beauchamp would be ‘mentioned’ in his team talk.

“I think the players understand the importance he has to this football club,” he said.

“There’s also a game to play, but this can be a motivating factor.”

Mr Robinson invited Mr Beauchamp’s daughters to join a lap of honour at full-time on Saturday.

READ MORE:

• Joey Beauchamp will be part of my Cambridge team talk, says Karl Robinson
• Joey Beauchamp: The local boy who became a legend
• Tributes flood in for Oxford United legend Joey Beauchamp
• 'He had magic in his boots': Matty Taylor pays tribute to childhood hero
• If you need support, you can contact Samaritans free any time from any phone on 116 123.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tik Tok

Got a story for us? Send us your news and pictures here

List an event for free on our website here