A FORENSIC team is currently at a murder investigation scene where a 38-year-old man was found dead this morning in Chippenham.

The man, believed to be local, was found with serious injuries on London Road at 12.20am and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 22-year-old Chippenham man has been arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in police custody.

Residents living along the road have spoken of their shock, with a cordon in place along London Road between its junction with Avenue La Fleche and Pack Horse pub which is expected to last the day.

Rachel Corcoran said: “I came back from London last night and got home just after midnight, but I didn’t seen anyone.

“I didn’t realise it happened so close to midnight but I thought it was quiet this morning as there were no cars going past.”

Mark Knevett said: “On the road people sometimes have a misunderstanding and I thought it was one of those things.

“There was a banging noise almost like someone was knocking on a front door, I heard lots of loud knocks and then it went quiet.

“I didn’t really want to stick my head out but I wish I had done."

Mr Knevett’s wife, Katie, added: “It’s a bit worrying when it’s practically outside your house.”

The incident took place only yards from Key Day Nursery Preschool, which is still open today.

Manager Emma Williams said: “We found out when we arrived at work but luckily we’re outside the cordon area so are still open.

“It’s awful and very shocking, we’ve not said anything to the children because they can’t see anything and they don’t need to know anything about it.”

Police are appealing for witnesses following the incident.

Detective Inspector Jim Taylor, of the Brunel Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “We are at the very early stages of the investigation, however, we believe this is an isolated attack and we would like to reassure the local community that we are carrying out a thorough investigation.

“We are in the process of informing the next of kin of the deceased and although formal identification has not yet taken place, we believe he is a Chippenham man. Our thoughts are with his family at this extremely difficult time.

“We would like to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed an assault in the area of London Road around midnight to please get in touch, if you have not already spoken to police.

“Did you see or hear any suspicious behaviour prior to this time? You could have vital information.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.