AN inquest was opened and adjourned yesterday into the death of a teenager.

The brief hearing was told that the body of 13-year-old Duncan Johnson was found at his family's house in Gayle, North Yorkshire, on Wednesday.

A post mortem examination was carried out on Thursday and police have since confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances.

However, an inquiry will be carried out on behalf of the coroner and the inquest reconvened at a later date.

"The town has been completely dumbfounded by the news," said councillor and businessman John Blackie.

"My own son was a friend of Duncan, who was a lovely, fun-loving youngster with a great sense of humour. Our hearts and minds must be with the family, who I know will have the sympathy of the whole community.''

Duncan was a pupil at Wensleydale School, Leyburn, where staff and pupils were also shocked by news of his death.

Head teacher David Eadon said yesterday: "This is an extremely sad and tragic event.

"Duncan was a popular student who will be sadly missed.