The hunt for the killer of a 74-year-old former hairdresser has spread to his former hometown of Keighley.

Detectives investigating the murder of Alexander James Ash, who ran a salon in Keighley in the mid 1970s, are keen to trace his business partner, they know only as Roger.

Mr Ash died of smoke inhalation in the early hours of Monday, March 12, at his home in Leonard Close, Boston, Lincolnshire.

Police believe his house was set alight deliberately and are treating his death as murder.

Detective Superintendent Roger Bannister, who is leading the inquiry, said Mr Ash, who was also a cabaret artist, ran a hairdressing business in Skipton Road, Keighley, in 1976 or 1977 closing it in 1979.

At the time he used his mother's maiden name, calling himself James Keene.

Det Supt Bannister said he hoped a photograph of him, taken in the early 1970s, would jog people's memories.

He said: "He ran the business with his business partner called Roger who was thought to be in his 50s.

"We are keen to trace Roger, anyone who was employed at the salon or had business connections with the 143 Skipton Road address."

Detectives had discovered another of Mr Ash's friends in the Keighley area called Ron, had since died.

Det Supt Bannister said: "This is a very complex inquiry, made challenging because James did seem to keep himself to himself.

"There is still much to be done in relation to this murder enquiry and we remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice."

Anyone with information can call the investigation team on (01529) 308609.