'Violent' burglars at large after killing Guy Hedger in Dorset

Police in Dorset are hunting at least two armed and violent men who shot a man dead in a planned burglary.

Officers were called out to the property in St Ives, near Bournemouth, on Sunday morning at about 3am.

The burglars were wearing balaclavas and one had a shotgun.

The victim has been named as Guy Hedger, 61, who was taken to hospital but died a short time later.

Police have launched a murder investigation and a manhunt for the burglars.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Connelly told Sky News: "They are violent and they are at large. They carried out a murder on the back of an aggravated burglary. We are doing everything we can to bring them to justice.

"We've carried out a full community impact assessment and have increased police patrols in the area to reassure local residents."

Police said Mr Hedger's civil partner was in the property at the time and witnessed the attack.

He is said to have been "deeply affected by the incident" and is being supported by specially trained officers.

Mr Hedger was marketing director at Avonbourne International and Business and Enterprise Trust, which runs colleges and a primary school in the Bournemouth area.

A statement from his employer said: "Everyone at Avonbourne Trust is shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Guy Hedger.

"Guy was a very kind and generous man. He had a deep passion for education and was dedicated to expanding the experience and knowledge of children in Bournemouth."

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Derbyshire said police do not believe Mr Hedger was known to the intruders, although all lines of inquiry are being pursued.

:: Police have urged anyone with information to contact them at 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 30:53. Alternatively they can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.