A MAN has been charged with murder in connection with the death of a 60-year-old, killed when a fire was started in the garden of his home.

Aaron Wilks, 37, was arrested following reports of a deliberate fire in the front garden of a property, which left one man seriously injured - he later died in hospital.

Mark Stoakes suffered burns in the fire in Oak Grove, Bognor, and was taken to hospital for treatment.

Wilks was charged with grievous bodily harm and arson in connection to the incident at around 8.15pm on Thursday, April 8.

He was also charged with throwing or casting an explosive substance with intent to burn, maim, disfigure, disable or do grievous bodily harm.

Mr Stoakes died in hospital 28 days after the fire.

Following his death, Sussex Police liaised with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) in relation to the incident.

Wilks has now been charged with murder and will appear at Portsmouth Crown Court in November.

Detective inspector Pauline Lane said: "Our teams have worked tirelessly on this investigation and following consultation with the CPS, we have charged a man with murder.

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to Mark Stoakes’ family and friends for this terrible loss and assure the local community that this is being investigated as a top priority.

"Together with our partners, we work hard to tackle crime in Arun and are carrying out high-visibility patrols in key areas to combat this.

"Although it’s important to provide a visible policing presence, we also very much need your support in keeping the community safe.

"If you are a victim or witness of criminal or suspicious behaviour please report it directly to Sussex Police on 101 or through the charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."