FAMILY man David Coppock who was found dead in his car with shotgun wounds to the head has been described as a 'lovely man' whose death will be a tragic loss.

The 48-year-old, dedicated to running the Widmer youth football team, was found by a passer-by down a quiet country lane in Prestwood on March 9.

Mr Coppock, of Clare Road, Prestwood, has just been formally identified by police and a post mortem, held on March 14, confirmed he had died of a gunshot wound to the head.

He was found in his car in Hanging Lane, Prestwood, and the news of his death has been greeted with sadness by those who knew him.

Bill Cleere, chairman of Wycombe District Referees Society, expressed his sympathy for the family.

He said he was 'a lovely man who would help anyone' and was known for running the Widmer youth football team.

He added: "He was a kind man who worked very hard for the team and only became a referee when they could not find one so he could help the kids.

"It is very tragic and is a sad loss."

His family did not wish to discuss his death at this time.

Police are not treating Mr Coppock's death as suspicious.

An inquest into his death was due to be opened and adjourned yesterday.