Three men in court charged with murder of businessman Guy Hedger

Three men have appeared in court charged with the murder of a businessman in his home, allegedly during a botched burglary.

Guy Hedger, 61, was shot in the early hours of 30 April at the house in Ringwood, Dorset.

Kevin Downton, 40, from Winterborne Stickland near Blandford, Dorset, appeared along with Jason Baccus, 41, and Scott Keeping, 44, both of Verney Close in Bournemouth, at Poole Magistrates’ Court for a short hearing on Saturday.

They spoke only to confirm their names, dates of birth and addresses.

All three accused were remanded in custody.

They are next due to appear via videolink at Winchester Crown Court on Wednesday, 9 May.

A 40-year-old Bournemouth woman who was also arrested in relation to the case has been released under investigation.

Dorset police said a post-mortem examination confirmed Mr Hedger died as a result of gunshot wounds.

Mr Hedger’s civil partner witnessed the attack and was said to have been left "deeply affected".

In a statement, the insurance executive’s family described him as "a caring and compassionate partner, son, brother and uncle who lived life to its full and enriched the lives of all those who knew him".

They added: "We are devastated that Guy’s life has been cut short in this way.

"Guy will be sorely missed by family, friends and colleagues, but he will live in our hearts forever."

Detective Superintendent Kevin Connolly appealed for anyone with information to come forward.

(c) Sky News 2017: Three men in court charged with murder of businessman Guy Hedger