Detectives investigating the murder of 92-year-old Charlie Stead said that a television appeal broadcast yesterday evening had generated a "definite line of inquiry."

Charlie Stead was found dead on February 26 2007 after neighbours, who noticed he hadn't collected his milk from the front door, raised the alarm.

The digital likeness of a man they think may hold vital information about the murder was released yesterday to coincide with the Crimewatch UK programme, which featured Charlie's murder.

Officers also made an appeal about a burgundy coloured Ford Focus car which was seen close to Charlie's house before he was killed.

Senior investigating officer Acting Detective Superintendent Jeff Smyth said: "Charlie was found in a rear bedroom. He had suffered a very serious head injury. There are no signs of a forced entry or a struggle, and we have nothing to suggest that anything has been stolen. We are hoping that this photograph being released today, which is a digital likeness of a male, may jog someone's memory. If you recognise this man, or indeed it is you, please contact police and tell us if you know what happened to Charlie."

Mr Stead had lived in the house since 1963, and led a very active life.

"He was a fit man, and made a daily walk to the shops for groceries from his house in Canberra Park into Dundonald Town. In his younger years, he was a member of the Royal Navy."

Acting Detective Superintendent Smyth said Charlie had been seen by neighbours in the days before his death, and made an appeal for the public to come forward if they noticed anything suspicious:

Police may be contacted on 0845 600 8000, or Crimestoppers may be contacted in confidence on 0800 555 111."

(SP/KMcA)