DETECTIVES searching for the weapon involved in the alleged murder of Guy Hedger have recovered parts of a sawn-off shotgun.

Police searched Canford Magna between Friday, August 25 and Monday, August 28.

The discovery was made in the River Stour near to Canford Parish Church.

Detective Chief Inspector Sarah Derbyshire, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “We have conducted a number of searches during this investigation and the find may be of significance.

“We thank everyone for their patience and cooperation during the four-day search and apologise for any disruption caused to the public while the searches were carried out.

“We would still urge anyone with information in relation to this case who has not already contacted us to come forward.”

Mr Hedger, 61, died in the early hours of the morning on Sunday, April 30 at his home in Castlewood, Ringwood.

It is alleged he suffered a shotgun injury after intruders reportedly entered his home.

Officers were called just after 3am to reports that Mr Hedger had been shot. He was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital.

Kevin Downton, who is 40 and from Winterborne Stickland near Blandford, 41-year-old Jason Baccus and 44-year-old Scott Keeping, both of Verney Close in Bournemouth, are all charged with murder. They are next appearing at Winchester Crown Court this Friday, September 8.

Helen Cooper, also known as Helen Keeping, was charged with assisting an offender and is also due to appear at the same hearing.

A 39-year-old Bournemouth man and a 46-year-old Poole man previously arrested in relation to the incident were released under investigation.

Independent charity Crimestoppers has offered a £10,000 reward for information leading to the recovery of the firearm used during the alleged murder as well as the jewellery reportedly stolen during the incident.

Detectives say there has been a positive response to the appeal.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55170062746. Alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or via crimestoppers-uk.org