Murdered pensioner Bill Davis died of head injuries

A great-grandfather who was murdered in his own home suffered "significant head injuries", detectives revealed today.

A painstaking forensic search was continuing in and around the Black Country home of 92-year-old Bill Davis, whose body was discovered by neighbours.

Officers were today combing the area for clues and a potential murder weapon, searching drain gutterings, rubbish bins and people's gardens in Hobley Street, Willenhall.

Meanwhile, tributes were paid to the murder victim, who was a former Josiah Parkes locks worker who had also served in the Royal Navy. Friends described him as a friendly and courteous man who enjoyed gardening and reminiscing about his time in the armed forces.

West Midlands Police said Mr Davis had suffered "significant head injuries" but the post-mortem to establish the exact cause of death was continuing today.

Officers said the forensic search was due to last for at least another 24 hours. A police cordon remains around the father-of-two's home but a wider cordon around Hobley Street and Fisher Street was set to be relaxed.

Supt Richard Baker, from the Force Criminal Investigation Department, said: "We continue our painstaking examination of the scene today and we will be speaking to significant witnesses, including those who discovered Mr Davis and family members who can begin to give us a picture of William's life and last movements.

"We believe William was last seen at around 2.30pm on Sunday and he was found collapsed in his home by neighbours shortly before we received the call at 6.30pm later that evening.

"We want to hear from anyone who saw Mr Davis on Sunday or saw anyone in the area around Hobley Street that afternoon.

"Any piece of information could well provide the key in finding those responsible for William's death and we urge anyone who may be able to help our inquiry to come forward at the earliest opportunity."

Stunned members of the Willenhall community today described Mr Davis as friendly, courteous and proud of his Royal Navy background.

Despite having walking difficulties and using an aid to get around, he would still try and get out and about as much as possible following the death of his wife Clara in 2006.

Mr Davis would chat to youngsters in the Cadets recalling his time at sea.

Ranjit Singh, of Knights Close, Willenhall, said the victim had been a family friend for decades and had always been hard working. The 46-year-old, who runs the Three Tuns pub in Walsall Road, Willenhall, said: "I used to bump into him regularly. He was always asking how my dad was.

"My father used to work with him at the Charles Perks foundry in Willenhall in the 1960s. I know he was a hard-working bloke.

"I've known him since I was a little kid. He loved his gardening and he was always on the move."

Marianne Peach, aged 32, of nearby Marston Street, has lived in the area for seven years and knew Mr Davis.

"He was lovely and really down to earth. He must have lived here 30-odd years at least," she said. "He was always nice to the kids and would have a conversation with them."

Mani Madaan, 22, of Jay's Store on Walsall Road added: "He used to come in most mornings at 9am to buy bread and milk. He was a nice person and always chatty."

Mr and Mrs Davis had a son and a daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. His family are now being supported by specialist police liaison officers.

A blue forensics tent has been put up outside his terraced house. Police are urging anyone with information to call police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.