Following the death of 77-year-old John Bamford in Wendover on April 6 this year, many in the community were left saddened and shocked.

His passing opened a murder investigation which led to Courtney Bamford, 36, of Griffin Lane, Aylesbury, being charged.

His sudden death in tragic circumstances has left a hole in what is a quiet village in the Chilterns, but for one man, the passing of John will hit like no other.

READ MORE: Aylesbury man arrested after pensioner's death in Wendover

Vinnie Lee Stevens (previously Bamford), from High Wycombe, learnt about the shocking incident through the Bucks Free Press article that was published on April 7 – a day after the alleged crime.

Mr Stevens was the biological yet estranged son of John, revealing in a touching tribute that despite the little contact they had, his heart ‘goes out to those who knew and loved the man.'

The house on the Aylesbury Road in Wendover

The house on the Aylesbury Road in Wendover

He tragically did not realise that they had both lived just miles away from each other and revealed his torment that they would now never be able to meet – something he had imagined for many years.

In his emotional post, he wrote: “I was shocked and saddened to hear of John's sudden and unexpected passing.

READ MORE: Wendover reacts as murder investigation is launched

“He was my biological father after my birth to John and Sandra Bamford in 1967, although has not been part of my life.

“For whatever reason we became separated when I was very young and there has been no contact since.

“I am saddened to learn that John has been living in the same county as myself for so many years.

“I am also saddened by the knowledge that our paths shall never now cross, however unlikely that may have been.

READ MORE: Wendover murder investigation: Victim identified by police

“I often considered what it may have been like to have met over a pint or a cup of tea as adults, if only one time.

The crime happened in the evening of April 7

“To me, the story of John Bamford has a first few pages and a last, very tragic page.”

At around 5.25pm on Tuesday, April 6, police were informed of an alleged attack in Aylesbury Road in Wendover.

An air ambulance was called and landed in Castle Park/Ashbrook Park area, a short walk away from the property, but sadly John died at the scene after suffering serious injuries.

His next of kin were informed and have been supported by specialist officers.

John Bamford sadly died after suffering from 'serious injuries'

READ MORE: Man charged with murder after pensioner dies in Wendover

In the immediate aftermath, Courtney Bamford was arrested and charged with one count of murder, and appeared at Oxford Magistrates Court on Saturday, April 10.

Vinnie continued: “The book has no more pages to it, as I know little else in between.

The air ambulance leaving the scene of the crime

“My heart goes out to those who knew and loved the man.

“My thoughts are with you in this very difficult and painful time.

“Rest well, John Bamford.”