Murder probe over park body find

Police are tracing Mr Whitehouse's movements on Tuesday evening

A murder inquiry has begun over the death of a 66-year-old man whose body was found in a Worcester park.

Gordon Whitehouse, from Whitbourne, had been the victim of a "violent physical attack," Det Ch Insp Gary Watson of West Mercia Police said.

His body was found in Gheluvelt Park about 0510 BST on Wednesday. The park is expected to reopen on Saturday.

Police want to trace a group of people drinking with Mr Whitehouse in the Saracens Head in the city on Tuesday.

In particular, police want to trace a white man, in his 30s, about 6ft (1.83m) tall who spoke with an Irish accent. He was wearing a white short-sleeved shirt and blue jeans, police said.

Mr Watson said: "We are currently tracking Gordon's movements throughout the evening.

"Officers are keeping an open mind as to the motive behind the murder."

Further tests

Mr Whitehouse was divorced and lived alone.

He was of medium to stocky build and had grey hair and a short grey beard, police said.

When he was out in the city centre on Tuesday he was wearing beige trousers and a brown checked or tweed-style jacket.

A post-mortem examination was held in Birmingham on Thursday but further tests were necessary to establish the exact cause of death, Mr Watson said.

He added: "However, we can say that there is evidence to indicate Mr Whitehouse had been the victim of a recent violent physical attack."