A MAN appeared in court today charged with murder following the death of a man at a farm near Blandford.

Marcin Tameczka died following an incident at Hanford Farm on Friday, September 28.

The 25-year-old Polish national, who lived locally, was pronounced dead at the scene.

An initial post mortem examination indicated the cause of death as blunt force trauma.

Matthew James Cradock, aged 26 and of Shaftesbury, was arrested in connection with the incident and released on police bail.

Today he was charged with murder and appeared at Weymouth Magistrates' Court this afternoon.

Cradock is next due to appear before Winchester Crown Court on Tuesday, February 12.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Dixey, of the Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT), said: “Following a thorough investigation and consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service, a charge of murder has been authorised.

“Family liaison officers have updated Marcin’s family and will continue to provide support.

“It is also important to stress that – as is typical in such circumstances – it would be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further ahead of the court process. It is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.”

A 27-year-old Shaftesbury man who was arrested on suspicion of murder in connection with the incident was subsequently released from under investigation and faces no further police action.