A key fob found on a man discovered hanging from a tree in a Staffordshire wood nearly 40 years ago may be the clue that finally identifies him, investigators believe.
The man was found on Sunday, April 5, 1987, by two men shooting in Coronation Wood in Swinfen, near Lichfield. Police believe he died about a week earlier. He was described as a 'friendly loner' in his mid-50s, 5ft 8ins (173cm), of slender build, with short, dark mousy hair greying at the sides and back, a greying moustache, and only two teeth in his bottom jaw.
He spoke 'good English with a strong Eastern European accent, possibly from Russia', and had many interesting stories to tell.
Key fob clue
Among the personal items found on the man were a key with a metal fob bearing the number '6', handkerchiefs, a blue comb, a disposable lighter, two copper coins, and two 'Ladbrokes' pens. Investigators now believe the key may have been used at a swimming pool locker.
Locate International, a charity investigating cold cases of missing and unidentified people, teamed up with Staffordshire Police to launch a fresh appeal last month. Several people came forward suggesting a man of similar appearance swam at weekends at the now-closed Friary School's pool in the mid-1980s.
“We take all possible leads seriously, but this one appears especially promising,” said Mark Greenhalgh, CEO of Locate International. “Someone of this description would have stood out, so we’re confident other people will remember him from the Lichfield area at the time.”
Police appeal
Detective Chief Inspector Louise Booker, of Staffordshire Police, said: “We are determined to identify this man and establish who he was after nearly 40 years. We urge anyone who recognises his description, clothing or personal belongings to come forward. No piece of information is too small and could help us finally provide answers about his identity.”
Police are asking the public to consider whether they used Friary School swimming pool in the early to mid-1980s, worked there, or knew someone who did; if they recall an Eastern European or Russian man matching the description; and whether the key fob could have come from the swimming pool.
The items also suggest the man may have spent time at betting shops. Investigators ask: “Did you visit betting shops in the area at the time, or know someone who did? Does he look or sound familiar?”
Anyone with information is asked to email appeals@locate.international, call 0300 102 1011, or contact Staffordshire Police on 101 quoting crime reference 147 of 12/05/2026.
