TWO people have been charged with the murder of businessman Guy Hedger near Ringwood.

Mr Hedger, 61, was killed in the early hours of the morning on Sunday, April 30 in his home in Castlewood, near St Ives.

A post-mortem examination found he died as the result of gunshot wounds.

A murder investigation was launched.

Today, officers from the Major Crime Investigation Team have charged Jason Baccus, 41, and Scott Keeping, 44, both of Verney Close in West Howe with murder and aggravated burglary.

Both men are due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Saturday, May 6.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Connolly, said: “Following a fast moving and thorough investigation, we have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service who authorised the charges.

“Family liaison officers have updated Guy’s family with this development and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“It is also important to stress – as is typical in such circumstances – that it would be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further ahead of the trial. It is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course."

John Montague, senior district crown prosecutor for the CPS, said: “Following a review of the evidence, I have authorised Dorset Police to charge Jason Baccus, 41, and Scott Keeping, 44, with the murder of Guy Hedger.

"The Crown Prosecution Service reminds all concerned that criminal proceedings against Jason Baccus and Scott Keeping are now active and that they have a right to a fair trial. It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

Detective Superintendent Connolly continued: “Even though two men have been charged, Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Derbyshire, Head of the Major Crime Team, continues to lead the investigation and any witnesses, who are yet to speak with officers, are asked to contact Dorset Police.

“There will continue to be a heightened police presence in the area while enquiries take place and our local policing team is there for residents, should they have any concerns."

A cordon remains in place at the address while crime scene investigators examine the scene.

A 40-year-old Bournemouth woman and a 40-year-old man from the Blandford area continue to be questioned by detectives.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 30:53.