THIS is the first image released of former thatcher Richard Clarke, whose death saw Suffolk police launch a murder probe earlier this week.

Elliot Furniss

THIS is the first image released of former thatcher Richard Clarke, whose death saw Suffolk police launch a murder probe earlier this week.

Mr Clarke, 74, was found dead in the driveway of his house on the outskirts of Eye on Saturday morning.

Friends and former colleagues have described him as a skilled craftsman with a “heart of gold”.

Police have renewed their appeals for information about Mr Clarke's death and have asked for anyone who passed his home in Cranley Green Road on Saturday morning to get in touch.

A spokesman said: “Detectives investigating the case are keen to speak to anyone who was in the area between Friday evening and Saturday morning and are particularly keen to trace anyone who drove along the road towards Occold between 5am and 7.30am on Saturday.

“Please come forward regardless of whether you think you saw anything of use as you may have information that can help the inquiry.”

The spokesman added: “A post mortem examination of the body revealed the man had sustained a head injury and further tests are being carried out to determine how this was sustained. The death is being treated as suspicious.”

A 42-year-old man who was arrested on suspicion of murder has now been released on bail to return to Ipswich Police Station on October 12.

Anyone with information that may help the investigation is urged to contact Suffolk Police on 01473 613500.