New clue after 'gay' murder

Police believe Geoffrey Windsor had been robbed

A gold ring may be the key to solving what detectives believe was a homophobic murder, in south London.

Police have issued photographs of a ring found near the body of Geoffrey Windsor, who was discovered dead at Beaulieu Heights, a park frequented by gay men off South Norwood Hill.

The ring is not believed to have belonged to Mr Windsor and the inquiry team are appealing for anyone who recognises it to contact them.

Police believe the victim, who lived locally and worked as a messenger in the City of London, was gay and are treating the murder, on 26 June, as homophobic.

This ring was found near the body

Mr Windsor's wallet has not been found and police are asking other men who have been robbed or assaulted in the park to come forward.

A spate of robberies took place in the summer of 2001.

Detective Chief Inspector Brian Haines, who is leading the investigation, said: "We know there were up to 10 to15 people in the park on the night - some have been spoken to, but we urgently need to speak to others who have not yet come forward.

"There are some indications which suggest Mr Windsor was the victim of a robbery but with homophobic intent - we have not yet recovered his wallet.

"Therefore we are also appealing to other potential victims of assault and robbery who have not previously reported this to police, to come forward."

Mr Windsor had suffered head injuries but a post mortem failed to establish the exact cause of death and further tests are being carried out.

Reassuring witnesses

Witnesses heard running footsteps at the time and Mr Windsor was found just before 0200 BST and was pronounced dead at Mayday Hospital in Croydon less than an hour later.

Gay police officers will be among those investigating the murder and witnesses can ask to speak to them directly if they feel more comfortable.

Mr Haines reassured other witnesses or victims who might be worried about coming forward that he is only interested in investigating the murder.

Friends or associates of Mr Windsor are also asked to get in touch to help police build up a profile of the victim.