Oxfordshire Golf Club death

Heart's been given more details about how a member of staff died at the Oxfordshire Golf Club near Thame.

Thames Valley Police is investigating the death of a 32-year-old Chris Varian from Stone near Aylesbury.

It happened at around 3pm on Saturday 21st August at The Oxfordshire Golf Club, Rycote Lane in Thame.

On Sunday Detective Chief Inspector Steve Tolmie from the Major Crime Unit said:

"Police were called to the scene at 3.12pm yesterday afternoon and the first officers arrived within four minutes of the first call. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

"This was clearly upsetting for the staff and guests who were at the golf club at the time and I would like to thank them for their cooperation."

On the Wednesday after Mr Varian's death, Detective Chief Inspector Tolmie said:

“I am aware that there has been some speculation surrounding the circumstances of Mr Varian’s death.

“Thames Valley Police can confirm that Mr Varian died as a result of decapitation.

“This was a horrific and callous murder and I would request that Mr Varian’s family are now given the privacy they deserve to mourn their loved one.”

Jonathan Limani aged 33 from Rycote Lane, Thame has been charged with murder and appeared at Oxford Crown Court on Tuesday 24th July.

He has been remanded in custody and will be appearing at Oxford Crown Court to enter a plea on 22nd October 2010.

Tributes

The family of Chris - who leaves behind his parent, brother and sister - have released the following:

"Chris was a wonderful person, everyone’s friend. 

"You could not wish to find a harder and more honest worker.

"He was truly a gentle man who wouldn’t hurt a fly. 

"His passing leaves a hole in this family which can never be filled or forgotten."

Chris's colleagues have also been paying tribute. A spokesman for the Oxfordshire Golf Club told Heart:

"Christopher was a much-admired and respected member of staff and friend. Our thoughts are with his family at this time."

Reassurance

Neighbourhood police officers are keen to reassure people living in Thame that this is an isolated incident.

This video of Sergeant Steve Hookham has been posted on YouTube: