An inquest has opened into the death of a former Whitehaven rugby star.

Matthew James Dalton, known as Jimmy, was found dead in Castle Park, Whitehaven, on November 8.

Emergency services, including the police, St Bees RNLI, and the coastguard, had carried out a two-day search for the 53-year-old Whitehaven man.

Cumbria's senior coroner David Roberts has opened an inquest into Mr Dalton's death and adjourned it until April 6.

Since his death, tributes have poured in for Mr Dalton, who is recognised as one of the most talented and popular wingers in the history of Whitehaven Rugby League Club.

His sons Tyrone and Drew described him as "inspiring, selfless and a legend".

They spoke about their father, a former sporting hero with Haven and a dedicated community volunteer.

Drew said: "It makes us proud to see how much he has done in so many peoples' lives. We didn't know, until after he died, how much he'd done. He was so humble, he would never have wanted anyone to know."

Despite Mr Dalton battling an illness that cut short his sporting career, two sons recall him going out of his way to help others.

Tyrone said: "He always had a smile on his face. He put everyone problems first before his own."

He completed qualifications including mental health training. He was involved in setting up Starting Point in Whitehaven, where he helped people in recovery and he secured funding for Copeland Aftercare to help many others.

Mr Dalton also worked at West Cumberland Hospital, and he volunteered at Whitehaven, Egremont and District Credit Union.

Hundreds of mourners filled St Begh’s Priory in Whitehaven at Mr Dalton's funeral to say their farewells.