A man whose badly burnt body was discovered at a Sussex beauty spot 16 years ago could finally be named.

Police hope an artist’s impression of the man, created with the help of the UK Missing Person’s Bureau, could lead to the man being identified and bring peace for his relatives who might have always wondered what happened to him.

The man, believed to be aged between 21 and 25, was discovered dead in a ravine in Ecclesbourne Glen, Hastings, on January 19, 1997.

Now the bureau and Sussex Police are appealing to the public for information about who the man is.

He is described as white, 5"10, and of stocky build. He was wearing blue jeans, a black jumper, an Adidas hat and black Dr. Marten shoes. He also had in his possession a watch made by Hana Time, Hong Kong.

There were no suspicious circumstances and an inquest recorded a verdict of suicide.

Detective Inspector Jon Gross, of Sussex Police, said: “We have worked with the bureau to put this case on their website because we know that they have recently started publicising such cases on the site and because in this case they have also been able to develop a good artist's impression of the man.

"Even after all these years it would be good to identify him and give any relatives some peace of mind and closure.”

He added: “We will certainly consider publicising other unidentified bodies in this way, but on the basis of a case by case assessment."

If you have any information that may help identify this man you can contact the UK Missing Persons Bureau via missingpersonsbureau@nca.x.gsi.gov.uk or 0845 000 5481.

Or call Sussex Police on 101 or email 101@sussex.pnn.,police.uk quoting serial 774 of 13/2.