A CHIPPENHAM man could face life imprisonment after pleading guilty to the murder of 38-year-old Russell Nixon in the town earlier this year.

Matthew Chapman, 22, of Wood Lane, spoke only to confirm his name and address and to plead guilty to the murder when he appeared before Judge Peter Blair QC at Bristol Crown Court this morning.

Police were called to London Road, yards away from Key Day Nursery, in the early hours of May 10, following reports of an assault, where they found Mr Nixon, of Derby Close, with fatal injuries.

The 38-year-old, who grew up in Derby and moved to Chippenham a number of years ago, was remembered for his kindness in spite of the personal problems he battled with.

His mother Anne Nixon said: “Russell loved his children so much. He loved woodwork, he loved gardening and he was a kind person always.”

Keith Wilson, the pastor of Chippenham Christian Fellowship Church, also paid tribute to the keen craftsman and fisherman at his funeral on June 21. He said: “Whilst he had his issues, he was a really nice guy to be with, he was friendly and respectful, well mannered and usually got people laughing with his great sense of humour.

“He enjoyed fishing and woodwork. He made a commitment to become a Christian and attended church and enjoyed Christian events. He also enjoyed helping neighbours with his gardening skills.

"A local friend had him round for Sunday lunch and he would buy his wife a present and flowers because that’s the kind of guy he was,thoughtful and kind. He will be sadly missed by his friends and family."

Chapman, who appeared before court wearing a beige sweatshirt and jeans, was due to be sentenced this morning but will instead learn his fate on Tuesday, November 14.

Judge Blair QC said: “You know there is a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for this and my consideration on that day will be focused on what the minimum period must be for detainment before your potential release back into the community.”

He was remanded in custody.