A MAN has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Swindon pub worker Aulton Tom Rogers on a cycle path near the town centre.

The 28-year-old local man was also arrested in connection with a separate allegation of robbery and causing grievous bodily harm on May 8 at the same location. He was taken to custody at Gablecross police station.

Mr Rogers, 60, was found dead next to the cyclepath near the railway station just before midnight on June 26.

In a statement Mr Rogers’ family described him as “a kind, unassuming, gentle man with a happy heart.

“He was a very quiet person, a hard worker and a man of simple tastes and means. Even though we live overseas, we have all enjoyed regular contact with Tom. We are fortunate that just a couple of weeks ago we were able to spend some wonderful time with him.

“Words cannot describe the sadness and devastation we all feel at this time. We sincerely appreciate all of the thoughts, prayers and support we have received.

“We would like to thank the police and community services for their compassion and professionalism. We would also like to thank the media for their respectful and sensitive coverage of the incident.

“We appeal to anybody who may be able to help the police with their investigations.

“We will all miss hearing Tom say: ‘Please give my love to all.’”