Detectives have revealed that the watch on a human skeleton found in woods near Ashburton was still working and set to British Summer Time.

The grim discovery was made by tree surgeons working in Ausewell Woods above Holne Bridge on Wednesday, March 31.

It is thought the remains are those of a man and may have lain undisturbed since last summer.

It appears he had been wearing combat trousers and died in a sleeping bag.

Police have said foul play was unlikely and have asked the public for help identifying the deceased.

Det Sgt Jonathan Phillips, of Torquay Police, said: 'The area has been cordoned off by CID to allow for forensic investigation of the site and removal of the skeleton.

'This will undergo forensic examination in due course in a bid to determine identification.

'Investigating officers are keeping open minds at this early stage, although at the moment the death is not being treated as suspicious.

'Police are keen to hear from anyone who saw a male walking in and around the woods of Ausewell  in July or August of last year.'

Anyone with relevant information is asked to call 08452 777444 and quote log 222 of March 31.