Chris Greenwood

THE parents of Chelsea gun siege barrister Mark Saunders said yesterday that he was known for his "warmth, generosity and sheer energy for life".

Rodney and Rosemary Saunders said their son would always be remembered by them as a caring and considerate man.

In a statement, the couple said: "Everyone who knew and loved Mark appreciated his warmth, generosity and sheer energy for life. He was a very talented and sociable person whose enthusiasm and charm touched so many people.

"We are devastated at our tragic loss and would like to be left alone to grieve at this time."

An inquest yesterday heard that Mr Saunders was hit at least five times by police marksmen during a shoot-out at his home. The divorce specialist, armed with a shotgun, was killed in his £2.2m London flat on Tuesday night.

Armed police moved in after he began firing shots at neighbours in Chelsea.

He was shot in the head, the heart and the liver and the bullets were fired from several weapons, Westminster Coroner's Court was told.

Coroner's officer Lynda Morris said: "The multiple gunshot wounds present are associated with severe internal damage to the brain, the heart, the liver and the main vein of the lower body.

"The external and internal gunshot-related damage is consistent with a minimum of five shots having hit the deceased.

The inquest heard that Mr Saunders's wife, Elizabeth Clarke, identified his body at Westminster Public Mortuary on Thursday. The formal cause of death was given as multiple gunshot wounds.

Independent Police Complaints Commission investigating officer Paul Craig told the inquest that a fuller report may take up to six months to prepare.

Last night, Ms Clarke said she and her husband had a "strong union" and were "deeply committed to each other".

The couple both worked as barristers at the Queen Elizabeth Building Chambers in Temple, central London.

Dr Paul Knapman adjourned the inquest until September 9.