POLICE are trying to trace the family of a North-East man who led a hermit-like existence.

Detectives in Darlington believe the body of a man found in a council-owned flat in the town is that of Maurice Alex Kinney.

They are hoping to trace relatives of the 67-year-old to formally identify the body.

Mr Kinney had lived alone at the flat in Whessoe Road since May 1994, and had few visitors.

He had not been seen by neighbours for several days before the body was found on Monday, May 26.

Police said there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

A post-mortem examination carried out by Dr Ursula Earle at Darlington Memorial Hospital revealed the man died of natural causes.

Coroners officer PC Linda Bentham said: "We have been told by neighbours that Mr Kinney did not have many visitors and lived a hermit-like existence.

"We are appealing for possible relatives to come forward to assist with the identification process."

Anybody with information is asked to call Darlington police on (01325) 467681.