The funeral of a pensioner killed during a burglary at his home in Biddenden will take place today.

Mourners will turn out to St. Michael’s Church in Smarden say their final goodbyes to 73-year-old Roy Blackman

The grandfather was bludgeoned to death at his bungalow in Headcorn Road on March 21, sparking a murder investigation.

In a tribute, his family described Mr Blackman as a "kind, wise and private man," who loved the countryside.

It continued: "We truly can’t believe that we won’t see him again or hear his laughter and we will never come to terms with the manner of his death."

Mr Blackman was a well known mechanic who owned a garage in the area and bred rare wildfowl in his spare time.

A 37-year-old man has been charged with his murder. Mark Love of Frittenden Road, Staplehurst has been remanded in custody.

Four other men, aged 32, 36, 41 and 49-years-old have been arrested in connection with the investigation and have been released on police bail whilst enquiries continue.

A 52-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender; he is also on police bail.

Another suspect, 36-year-old William Smith, was shot dead by police in Goudhurst on May 1.

An investigation into the incident is being led by the Independent Police Complaints Commission.