A woman killed in a reported act of cannibalism died from a "sharp force trauma to the face and neck", an inquest in Britain has heard.

The findings of a provisional post-mortem examination on Cerys Yemm (22) were revealed at the opening of an inquest into her death at a homeless hostel in the village of Argoed, South Wales earlier this month.

Police fired a 50,000-volt Taser at Matthew Williams (34) to stop his attack, before he was restrained and arrested.

Williams, who was released from prison at the end of October, later died in custody.

The inquest in Newport was adjourned until April, and during the hearing coroner David Bowen revealed Ms Yemm's body will be released to her family.

Reporter Adele Robinson, at the inquest, said: "Proceedings took place over a matter of minutes without the presence of Cerys Yemm's family."

"There'll now be a period of more than four months for the murder investigation to develop and the home office pathologist to complete his findings."

The attack happened at the Sirhowy Arms Hotel, which is used by Caerphilly Council to house homeless people while they wait for permanent accommodation.

Owner Mandy Miles told earlier this month of the moment she walked into a blood-soaked room to confront Williams.

"I walked into the room and saw lots of blood and a girl lying completely still," Mrs Miles explained.

"I knew at that point she was dead. I said to Matthew, 'what are you doing to that girl?' but he replied 'that's no girl'."

The UK Independent Police Complaints Commission has started its own investigation into the suspect's death.

The British Ministry of Justice has launched a serious case review into Williams' release from prison after serving a sentence for assaulting an ex-girlfriend.

There have also been claims Williams was a diagnosed schizophrenic who had not been offered medication since being released.