A former Bradford police officer was found dead following a burglary at his home.

David Ward's body was found by police officers called to his end-terrace house in Wakefield, early yesterday.

He served as an officer in West Yorkshire Police's former Odsal Division in Bradford from March, 1989, resigning in April, 1992, to pursue a career as a car salesman. West Yorkshire Police said his conduct during his service is recorded as exemplary.

Speculation locally was focusing on whether Mr Ward, 38, was the victim of a bungled burglary.

But West Yorkshire Police would only confirm that detectives have launched a murder inquiry.

Two men were arrested today in connection with the incident.

Neighbours said Mr Ward ran an internet-based business specialising in selling Ford Kas. A number of these cars were today parked behind his home, which was sealed off with police tape and guarded by officers.

One friend described Mr Ward today as a "lovely chap" who was much loved by his many friends.

Vicky Keighley, who first met him a few years ago on a Caribbean holiday with mutual friends, said: "He was just a really good laugh - very funny."

She said Mr Ward was a keen scuba diver.

A police spokesman said officers were called to the house off Denby Dale Road at 2.06am. She said: "Police were called to a report of a burglary taking place at the house.

"On arrival, police discovered the body of a 38-year-old man who has now been identified as David Ward, a car dealer, who lived alone at the house.

"The area was sealed off and the coroner's officer was informed. A post mortem is due to take place later this afternoon."

Yesterday, a team of forensic officers was combing the property and a number of other areas of land police have sealed off in the immediate area.

l The two men who have been arrested are aged 25 and 28. They are being held for questioning at a West Yorkshire police station.