THE decomposed body of a woman was found face down on her kitchen floor more than a month after she was last seen, an inquest heard.

Virginia Waters, 63, had to be identified by DNA samples after the discovery at her Poole home on Monday, October 20.

Emergency services were alerted after neighbours became concerned for her welfare, Dorset Coroner Sheriff Payne was told.

A post mortem examination failed to reveal the cause of her death, which has been recorded as ‘unascertained’.

Miss Waters, who the Daily Echo understands lived alone, lived at a mid-terraced home in Chapel Road, close to bustling Ashley Cross.

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: “Obviously we are very sad about this lady, but I don’t think it is fair to think that this is in some way an uncaring area to live. People do go away on holiday or visiting for weeks on end. It is not that unusual.”

Another neighbour said: “There’s not much I can tell you really. I couldn’t even tell you her surname.

“The first thing I knew that anything was wrong was when the police car was outside.”

The Bournemouth inquest was adjourned until January 15 to allow the coroner to carry out further enquiries.

Poole ward councillor Ann Stribley said: “I am shocked and saddened to hear this, but not necessarily surprised.

“Sadly these things do happen.

“I would urge people to look out for their neighbours, if only to say ‘hello’ and ‘good morning’,” she added.

Borough of Poole is urging people to keep an eye on vulnerable residents, especially as winter approaches.

“Whether it’s checking on a neighbour who may live alone or reporting someone who may be sleeping rough, we can all spare a couple of minutes to help,” said a spokesman.

The council urges anyone concerned about a vulnerable adult to encourage them to call the adult social services helpdesk on 01202 633902.