THE coroner is continuing to investigate the death of a homeless man who was found with serious head injuries on a rural road near Ringwood five months ago.

Gheorghe Igna, who had been living in a tent on Mudeford Beach, was found unconscious at Dudmoor Farm Road on Monday, March 31.

The 48-year-old Romanian, who was described by friends as a charming, hard-working and “easily loveable” gentleman, was taken to Southampton General Hospital, where he died 10 days later from his injuries.

Initially it was thought he may have been the victim of a hit-and-run.

However, after initial investigations, a spokesman from Dorset Police said it was believed he was either pushed or fell from a moving silver Toyota Hilux pick-up.

Five months on and friends of the Romanian say they have still not been able to bury his body due to the ongoing investigation.

Anastasia Victoria, who set up the homeless support group Street Light Bournemouth after being inspired by Gheorghe, said his friends are desperate to lay him to rest.

“We weren’t allowed into the hospital to see him so we didn’t get to say goodbye,” she said.

“We just want to be able to bury him.”

An inquest into Mr Igna’s death was opened and adjourned at Bournemouth Coroner’s Court on Tuesday, April 15.

A post-mortem examination revealed he died from a head injury, the court was told.

A spokesman from the coroner’s office said a full inquest will be held at a later date.

Police say their investigations have concluded and the case handed over to the coroner.

A 22-year-old man from Christchurch was arrested and interviewed in connection with this incident but released without charge.