Dog walker murdered in woodland near East Harling is named as 83-year-old Peter Wrighton

Peter Wrighton, 83, from Banham. Picture: Norfolk Police

The family of Mr Wrighton, including his wife of 59 years, have paid tribute to him today, describing him as ‘a lovely, gentle husband, dad and grandfather’.

They said he had a ‘kind nature’ and spoke of his ‘love of walking dogs and chatting with people to pass the time of day’.

A statement read: “Peter was immensely kind and never had a bad word to say about anybody and people always seemed to take a liking to him.

“We are extremely thankful for all the people who have come forward to speak with the police and hope we will soon be able to understand why this has happened.

Peter Wrighton, 83, who was killed while walking his two dogs near East Harling in Norfolk. Picture: NORFOLK POLICE

“When we think of Peter we remember him with fond and happy memories that will stay with us always.”

Mr Wrighton worked for British Telecom for 35 years before retiring to Banham 30 years ago.

READ MORE: What we know about the murder inquiry so far

Detectives are continuing to investigative the circumstances around his death but believe the public may hold the key to finding his killer.

Police were first called at around 10.45am on Saturday, August 5, after the body of a man was discovered in woodland near the Fiveways junction.

READ MORE: Hunt intensifies for murder suspect

Norfolk’s County Policing Commander, Chief Superintendent Mike Fawcett, said: “I would like to reassure the public that we are following several lines of enquiry and are pleased the public are supporting us in our investigation.

“We have received more than 100 calls in the last three days and we would continue to urge people with information, particularly those who were in the area between 9am and 11m, to make contact.

“I would like to ask again, that if you live within five miles of The Street please can you check your bins, gardens and outbuildings for any items which may have been discarded by a potential suspect.

“I would also request that premises or businesses within the same area with CCTV systems preserve any footage that relate to the hours of 6am until 9pm on Saturday 5th August.

“Similarly, if you have a dash-cam or other recording devices and travelled in the area, save the footage and contact the police.”

READ MORE: Villagers living in fear following dog walker’s death

He added: “We remain concerned that we have not yet been able to trace the person or people responsible for Peter’s death.

“I hope residents will take some reassurance from the increased policing presence today which will be continuing throughout the evening and as long as is necessary, but I am aware that this incident will be causing some to worry.

“I would ask people to remain vigilant and to contact us if they see anything suspicious.”

Anyone with information about the murder or any suspicious activity should contact Norfolk Police on 101, quoting Operation Graduate, visit the mobile police station or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.