Police investigating the death of a man in Full Sutton are investigating whether his occupation as an antiques dealer could be significant in establishing a motive for his murder.
Although the authorities are yet to formally identify the 56-year-old man found at Whisker Cottage in the village, he has been named locally as Peter Battle.
This afternoon police revealed that the victim was an antiques dealer, and the results of a post mortem confirmed he died of a head injury.
The man was found on Thursday afternoon after police received a call reporting concern for the safety of the resident of a property in the village.
Detective Chief Inspector Alistair McFarlane, leading the investigation said: “We have specially trained police officers liaising with the family of the occupier and we would hope to obtain a formal identification within the next few days.
“Clearly, this is very distressing time for the family concerned and we are keeping them up to date with developments.
“The man believed to have lived in the cottage is known as a local antiques dealer, who frequents auction houses in the Yorkshire area.
“We consider that this may be significant in relation to a motive for his murder.
“The date of his death remains unclear at this time but we are particularly interested in determining any activity taking place at the property from the end of December 2012 to 7 February 2013, when the man’s body was discovered. That may include visitors to the cottage or unusual vehicles in and around the area.
“I would like to appeal to anyone, who has any information, which could lead to the identification of the killer(s) to come forward to speak to us by calling 101 quoting log number 492 of 7 February 2013, or directly to the Incident Room on 01377 208989. Alternatively calls can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”