A murder investigation has been launched following the discovery of a man's body on the Ravenscliffe estate.

Detectives from Bradford North CID said the 43-year-old man's body was found by friends at a house in Rowlestone Rise, Ravenscliffe, at about 9.30am on Saturday.

It is believed the man was assaulted at a house in Brunswick Road, Thorpe Edge, on Thursday evening.

Detective Inspector Shaun Berry of Bradford North CID said: "It seems from initial inquiries that the man had been involved in some sort of disturbance round about midnight on Thursday.

"Although badly injured, he had been able to make his own way to the address where he was found."

Detective Inspector Berry said the man's injuries were "consistent with a severe beating".

He said it was not known if any weapons were used.

A post mortem was carried out on the man, whose name has not yet been released, and it revealed that he died as a result of criminal assault.

Police carried out forensic examinations at both addresses on Saturday and sealed them off for scenes of crime officers.

Police were still present at both addresses yesterday.

House-to-house inquiries were also made in the Brunswick Road area and police are keen to speak to anyone who may have information about the incident.

"We have spoken to a lot of witnesses in the area but somebody does know something," said Detective Inspector Berry.

"Anybody with information who was in that area on Thursday evening up to about midnight should contact us."

Anyone with information is asked to call Bradford police on (01274) 376259.

l Five local people have been arrested in connection with the incident and released on bail pending further enquiries.

They are three women aged 16, 17 and 47 and two men aged 33 and 49.