Becky Watts: Murdered teenager had to be identified by DNA, inquest hears

The remains of the dismembered 16-year-old were discovered after a major police search - her funeral is finally due to take place next week

The body of tragic schoolgirl Becky Watts had to be identified by her DNA, an inquest heard today.

Becky, 16, went missing missing from her home in February and her dismembered remains were discovered 11 days later.

Her inquest was opened at Flax Bourton, Somerset, and heard her body was identified by DNA and a post-mortem has taken place.

The inquest was adjourned until the conclusion of criminal proceedings over her death.

No family or friends were present at the hearing and a cause of death was not given.

Coroner's officer Deborah Neil told the inquest: "Her death was confirmed on March 3 by a pathologist. She was identified by DNA.

"The brief circumstances are that Rebecca was reported to the police as a missing person.

"She was found later at an address in the Barton Hill area. She underwent a post-mortem examination at Flax Bourton and people have since been charged in connection with her murder."

Heartbreaking: Becky's father Darren Galsworthy didn't attend the inquest today but her funeral service is due to be held next week



Avon Coroner Maria Voisin told the court that the inquest would be reviewed in August.

She added: "This inquest is going to stand adjourned pending the outcome of the police investigation and criminal proceedings."

It also emerged today that Becky's funeral will take place next Friday, April 17.

The service will be held at 11am at St Ambrose Church in Whitehall, Bristol.

Becky, who lived with her dad Darren Galsworthy, and her step-mother, Anjie, went missing from their home in St. George, Bristol, on February 19.

Her body parts were found at a house in the Barton Hill area of the city three miles away on Monday, March 2.