A strong batch of heroin probably killed two restaurant workers who were discovered lying on their backs at a Bradford flat.

Police officers found the Italian nationals, who worked at La Dolce Vita Restaurant in Birstall, in front of a blaring television after being called to the block in Flockton Avenue, Bowling.

Detective Chief Superinten-dent Max McLean, who is heading the investigation, today revealed that a toxicology study had been completed on the pair. The pair who died were restaurant owner Ciro Carola, 26, and waiter Fulvio Dalpozzo, 41.

He said: "The report points towards these deaths being due to overdoses of heroin."

Det Chief Supt McLean added: "It appears that this was brought about by the strength of the drug rather than through contamination."

The conclusions of the toxicology tests will now be passed to the Coroner.

An inquest had been opened and adjourned into the deaths while police carried out their inquiries.

The proceedings are expected to re-open in the coming fortnight.

Friends of the two men had raised the alarm after spotting their apartment door open at 12.30am on April 24 and seeing them laying motionless on the floor.

It is believed the pair had come home from work on the Sunday night, and then went out for a drink.

At about 3.30am, after visiting the Planet Venus nightclub in City Road, the pair returend home with Mr Carola's girlfriend. She left the flat before the two were discovered dead.

Two days after the pair were found dead, La Dolce Vita was burgled and an amount of cash taken.

Two people - a man and woman - have been arrested in connection with the deaths and released on police bail while police inquiries continue.