Reward of £20k offered in towpath murder inquiry

Robert Brown used to work in his family's fruit and vegetable shops in Northampton

Crimestoppers has offered a £20,000 reward for information leading to the conviction of those responsible for the death of a man found fatally injured on a towpath.

A murder inquiry began when Robert Brown, 57, was discovered by a member of the public beside the River Nene in Northampton on 1 August.

Three people have been arrested in connection with the investigation.

The charity said help from the public "could make all the difference in bringing justice for Robert and his family".

Mr Brown was found on a bench by the towpath behind Auctioneers' Court at about 06:30 BST on 1 August.

An ambulance was called but he could not be saved.

This CCTV picture has been released of Mr Brown shopping in Morrisons on the night he died

Crimestoppers described Mr Brown as "a well-liked member of the Northampton community who used to work at the family-run fruit and vegetable shop in St James and Market Square".

It said it was offering the reward for information given directly to Crimestoppers that lead to "arrest and conviction".

The charity said information passed directly to the police would not qualify for the reward.

Detectives have been examining the area between Wathen Wigg Bridge and Beckett's Bridge in Northampton

Lydia Patsalides, Crimestoppers' regional manager, said: "Robert was a much-loved local figure and his murder has shocked the community.

"You can contact Crimestoppers anonymously, and we guarantee your details will never be asked for or traced.

"Your help could make all the difference in bringing justice for Robert and his family."

Information can be submitted either online or by calling 0800 555 111. The reward will expire in three months.

Northamptonshire Police said three men, aged 38, 41 and 32, arrested in relation to the inquiry have been released on bail.