A MAN appeared in court yesterday charged with murdering Aulton Tom Rogers just over a week ago.

When Jason Voong, 27, appeared before Chippenham magistrates he also faced a charge of attempted murder Voong, of Southbrook Street, is accused of murdering Mr Rogers, 60, on June 26 and attempting to murder Leanne James, 24, on May 8.

Due to the seriousness of the offences the case has been referred to Bristol Crown Court for trial and Voong will make his first appearance at the court today.

During yesterday’s proceedings, Voong, who appeared with a shaved head and wore a black shirt and dark trousers, didn’t speak, other than to confirm his name, address and age.

His family were present at court and some cried as Voong was taken away from the dock by two guards as he was remanded in custody.

Voong, who hasn’t entered a plea, was arrested on Monday and taken to Gablecross Police Station, where he was charged on Wednesday.

Mr Rogers, known to friends as Tom, died from multiple stab wounds when he was cycling along an underpass close to the Oasis Leisure Centre.

He lived in Walcot and was returning home from working a shift at the Woodlands Edge pub, in Midwinter Close, Peatmoor.

Since Mr Rogers’ death, his friends and family have paid tribute to him, describing him as a gentle, quiet man who didn’t have an enemy.

The attempted murder of Ms James happened at the same underpass which is known locally as ‘muggers alley.’ Wiltshire Police are continuing their inquiries into the incidents with detectives from the Major Crime Investigation Team expected to revisit the scene of Mr Rogers’ death.

There will also be increased officer patrols across the town centre.

“The pathway between the town centre and Rodbourne remains closed and is unlikely to be reopened until next week as examinations of this scene are continuing,” said Superintendent Andrew Carr.

“We continue to appeal for anyone who was in that area on the evening of Thursday, June 26 or Thursday, May 8 to contact us.

“We would also like to hear from anyone who uses the pathway regularly as they may have information which will assist our investigation.

The bridge that leads from the Oasis Centre to the train station will be open to the public between 8am and 4pm this weekend.

Anyone with information about either incident can call the police on 101.