A MURDER investigation has been launched following a fatal stabbing on a field in Gorse Hill, Swindon.

Police are appealing for witnesses after an attacker assaulted a 33-year-old man in a green space off May Close at around 2.15pm on Sunday.

The air ambulance landed nearby but the victim died at the scene. His next of kin have been informed while officers wait for formal identification of the body to be carried out.

A cordon blocked all entrances to the field known as The Venny after police were called to the scene of the crime at 2.40pm.

Police cars and officers stood watch at the Pinehurst Road side of the field while crime scene investigation vans parked up at a cul-de-sac off May Close.

Forensic teams set up a large white tent on the crest of the large grassy mound and around six investigators donned protective clothing to examine the area.

After an afternoon of investigation, police opened a murder enquiry with the Major Crime Investigation Team.

They are asking for any witnesses or anyone with CCTV or dash cam footage from the area at the time of the incident to contact them urgently.

A crime scene will remain in place at the field while the force's enquiries continue and witnesses are spoken to. There will be an increased presence to provide community reassurance.

Supt Phil Staynings said: “This is a tragic incident and our initial thoughts are with the victim’s friends and family at this awful time.

“I want to reassure everyone living in the local area that we are treating this as a major investigation and Wiltshire Police are working tirelessly and at pace to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

“Members of the public will see additional patrols in the area and if you have any concerns or information, don’t hesitate to speak to one of our officers.

“I’d also like to take the opportunity to send out a clear message that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated by Wiltshire Police.

"This highlights the catastrophic consequences these actions can have on individuals, families and the wider community”.

A woman who lives near the field and did not wish to give her name said: “This is terrifying, it’s shocking. I’ve lived here for seven years and nothing quite like this has happened before.

"I could see it from my building and I didn’t realise the severity of the situation until the helicopter landed and I could hear the police and medics arrive.

“My thoughts are with the man’s family and friends.”