A man has been charged with the murder of a 34-year-old man in Devizes on Thursday afternoon.

The victim, now confirmed as Matthew Baggott, suffered multiple stab wounds in St John's Street.

The suspect, who is from the Melksham area, will appear at Chippenham Magistrates Court today charged with the killing.

Mr Baggott was a well known face around town and was thought to have been living in a tent at Dyers Wood, Quaker's Walk, Devizes.

In the days leading up to his murder he was reportedly heartbroken due to the death of his beloved dog, believed to be Patch, who accompanied him everywhere, although he was seen another pet.

His mother, Sue Talbot, died last year of cancer and it is believed he has a sister, Andrea, who lives in the north of England.

About 20 years ago Mr Baggott worked on the production line at engineering company Tamura Hinchley when it was based in Pans Lane, Devizes.

Kennet District Council parking attendant Peter Eagles saw Mr Baggott in the town centre shortly before his death.

Mr Eagles said: "I saw him outside the post office at about 2.30pm with a dog, a Staffy. He was sat on the circular bench and there were other people, some girls, sat there.

"We said hello and exchanged pleasantries but I didn't stop as I had to be somewhere else. I also saw him at the carnival procession and talked to him. I always had time for him."

Mr Eagles used to work with Mr Baggott at Tamura Hinchley, as did Mr Baggott's mother and sister.

He added: "Matthew was a runner at Hinchleys. He would supply the winding machines with wire when they ran out. Matthew was always pleasant and full of energy. He always had a smile."

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