Clifford SaundersGAZETTE & HERALD: THE family of 18-year-old Clifford Saunders, whose body was found near Junction 17 of the M4 on Friday, said they feel let down by mental health and social care professionals.

Mr Saunders, of Hungerdown Lane, Chippenham, was found by police officers at 10.45pm lying by the hard shoulder on the westbound carriageway and it was clear from his injuries he had been hit several times.

Parents Nigel and Carol Saunders, from Chippenham, said in a statement yesterday: "Our youngest son Clifford has died in the most tragic of circumstances, at only 18 years of age.

"From a child Clifford could not have been loved and cherished more by his family and friends. He loved us all in return and was never too embarrassed to show it. His charm, good looks and smile could melt your heart. He had time for anyone and brightened the lives of all who knew him. Sadly, there was a side to Clifford that only those closest to him saw.

"Over the past eight years we have had to plead with more than 35 mental health and social care professionals for help. Fourteen psychiatric workers have seen Clifford but when last year he was to be admitted to hospital for a full assessment and treatment there was no bed available.

"Unfortunately in today's society and with Clifford's vulnerability he found escape in substances which gave him freedom from reality.

"It had become increasingly difficult for Clifford to cope with life and now we can only hope that he is finally at peace with himself.

"The people we had put our faith in to help protect Clifford have failed us all in the worst possible way and now the world has lost the chance of being touched by his warmth and vitality.

"We now need the time and privacy to come to terms with our loss and hope that others in a similar situation will not have to suffer as Clifford did."

Sergeant Richard Day of Swindon Traffic Department, who is dealing with the incident, said it is believed the body had been hit by a number of HGVs.

"It was very traumatic for all the officers involved. We found a grey bicycle left at Junction 17," he said.

The motorway was partially blocked for eight hours as officers carried out their search of the area.

Police have had many witnesses have come forward since appealing for anybody who may have seen Mr Saunders travelling along the A350 from Chippenham to Junction 17 and they are now focussing on motorists using the M4 itself.

Sgt Day said: "We are hoping to get a message board placed on the motorway appealing for information. Lorry drivers and other vehicles may have swerved."

He said it is not known whether Mr Saunders fell from the or he jumped.

Srg Day said: "We have to be open minded at the moment."

PC Steve Love, from Swindon Traffic Department who is acting as family liaison officer, said: "They are a very supportive and lovely family and it's very, very sad."

The coroner will formally open and adjourn the inquest today in Salisbury.