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Family's plea a month after man's body found

BBC Detective Inspector Alex Wilkinson and Sarah Hayden sit together in front of a blue GMP display board. DI Wilkinson is wearing a shirt and a name tag, while Ms Hayden is wearing a cream-coloured hoodie. BBC
Mr Riddell's stepdaughter Sarah Hayden said he was a "lovely man"

The stepdaughter of a man whose body was found in his bedroom a month ago has said she "just wants answers" after police launched a murder investigation.

William Riddell, 59, was found dead by ambulance crews at his home on Astbury Avenue in Chorlton, Manchester, on 10 November.

A man, 47, who was arrested on suspicion of murder by Greater Manchester Police has been released on bail.

Mr Riddell's stepdaughter Sarah Hayden urged anyone who may have information or saw anything suspicious to come forward in a joint appeal with the force.

The 41-year-old said Mr Riddell, known as Billy, was a "good, caring man with a big heart" who was well-liked in the local community.

His sudden death had been "devastating" she said, adding her "emotions have just been all over the place".

Images taken of Mr Riddell on CCTV on the day before he died have been released by police in a bid to work out his movements.

GMP A CCTV image of William Riddell wearing a black jacket and black hat, walking into a newsagents. He can be seen between two aisles filled with sweets. GMP
Police have released CCTV footage of Mr Riddell the day before he died

His body was discovered by ambulance crews at about 11:35 GMT after reports of a disturbance at the property.

Police were called after several suspicious injuries were found on his body, Det Insp Alex Wilkinson said.

The force was still waiting for a pathology report to be finished, and had appealed for help to work out the circumstances leading up to his death, he added.

This included information on any suspicious activity or incidents in the days or weeks leading up to his death

"You may have spoken to him or heard something, and your help could allow us to provide Billy's family with the answers they deserve," Det Insp Wilkinson said.

GMP A CCTV image of William Riddell, walking past a bus stop wearing a black jacket, hat and blue jeans. He has a black beard. GMP
Officers want to "build a picture" of Mr Riddell's movements before his death

Ms Hayden said a funeral for her stepfather had taken place on Monday.

"It was difficult, he got a good turnout because the community came, and they loved Billy as well, he was a top guy," she said.

"I would just ask anyone who knew him to come forward and tell police."

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