TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘compassionate and caring’ hospital consultant – as an inquest opened into his death.

Hugh Cox, 61, was reported missing last month after he failed to turn up for work at Poole Hospital where he was a ‘hugely respected’ consultant in ear, nose and throat and a head and neck surgeon. 

The inquest opening heard there was some indication he may harm himself when he left his home in White Lackington, near Piddlehinton, that morning. 

A missing person’s appeal was launched however Bournemouth Coroner’s Court was told his body was found in the English Channel by fisherman and emergency services on June 28. 

Dorset coroner Rachael Griffin said his cause of death was drowning and adjourned the full hearing until January 5.

In tribute, Robert Talbot, medical director at Poole Hospital NHS Foundation Trust said: “We are deeply saddened by the death of our friend and colleague Mr Hugh Cox. Hugh was a highly regarded and respected consultant and had worked at Poole Hospital for 16 years and will be greatly missed by the many colleagues that knew him. Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”

Mr Cox’s first consultant post was in the Royal Navy, including honorary consultancies at Portsmouth and Southampton University Hospitals. 

He started at Dorset County Hospital in 1999 before moving to Poole Hospital in 2001. 

Frances Burden, chairman of head and neck cancer charity About Face added: “Many of the volunteers and supporters of About Face Poole have over the years been fortunate to be under the excellent care of Mr Cox. Not only was he an expert in his field, he was compassionate and caring and is a great loss to his profession.”

Former colleagues and patients posted tributes online in memory of Mr Cox. 

A colleague said: “I worked with Hugh but not recently, always pleasant no matter whatever the hour, day or night. A highly competent clinician, always calm and considered.”

One nurse said: “A true gentleman and a competent, caring clinician who had time for all. My heartfelt condolences.”