A murder investigation has been launched after a man died in hospital days after being attacked in a Canterbury park.

Homeless David Wilkes, 35, was beaten unconscious in picturesque Dane John Gardens last Tuesday evening.

He suffered serious head injuries and was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.

Kent Police today confirmed a murder probe has been launched after Mr Wilkes died in hospital yesterday.

Two homeless men have already been charged in connection with the attack.

Peter Clement, 50, is accused of inflicting grievous bodily harm and appeared before Canterbury magistrates last Wednesday.

He was remanded in custody until Monday, August 19, when he is due to enter a plea at Canterbury Crown Court.

Police said 22-year-old Lloyd Thorne has also been charged with inflicting grievous bodily harm.

A force spokesman said a post mortem examination will be carried out later this week.

Officers from the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate will then discuss the charges with Crown Prosecution Service lawyers.

Mr Wilkes was found badly injured when officers were called at just before 7pm to reports of a fight in the park.

He was taken to the William Harvey Hospital, in Ashford, before being transferred to the specialist head unit at King's College Hospital in London.

Police said he had undergone two operations to his head before he died.

In the aftermath of the assault, police sealed off part of the park and forensics officers scoured the scene for clues.

Video: Police at the scene in Dane John Gardens, Canterbury