Three arrests over murder of Midlands developer

Detectives investigating the death of a Bridgnorth man were today quizzing three people from the West Midlands on suspicion of his murder.

The victim, named locally as Richard Sherratt, aged 57, was found in a flat in the historic market town. Two men and a woman from the West Midlands were arrested on Saturday on suspicion of murder.

They were continuing to be quizzed at police stations in Shropshire this afternoon.

Officers have spent several days carrying out forensic examinations at the murder scene in Old School Mews, off High Street, since the body was found on Thursday.

The victim is originally from the Stourbridge area.

Neighbours in Bridgnorth have described Mr Sherratt as a 'friendly' character who had only been living in the first-floor flat where his body was found for a couple of months.

One resident, who did not wish to be named, said: "He was a property developer and was going to build some apartments at the end of the road. Everybody is in shock I think. When you see forensics people in white coats and police staying outside it is pretty disconcerting."

A 30-year-old Telford woman who was arrested on suspicion of murder has been released without charge, a West Mercia Police spokesman confirmed.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Tonks has appealed for information about any suspicious activity in the vicinity of Old School Mews. He added: "We particularly want people to call us if they heard an argument taking place at premises in Old School Mews or nearby on Wednesday, especially late at night or into the early hours of Thursday.

"They should call 0300 333 111."

By Heather Large