TWO men have been arrested after a pensioner was murdered at his Southend home.

Fire crews were called to Albert Williams’ flat in Cedar Close after a blaze broke out.

Mr Williams’ death was initially treated as non-suspicious, but a forensic post-mortem examination established he had been assaulted and died from internal injuries, with police then opening a murder investigation.

Detectives arrested a 34-year-old man from Grays at his work address in Sutton Road, Southend, shortly before 7am today (Thursday, January 28) in connection with the murder investigation.

He was arrested on suspicion of conspiracy to burgle.

A second man, aged 43, and from Westcliff, was also rearrested on suspicion of murder and burglary at his home address in Westcliff this morning.

He was arrested last year and was on bail. Both men are currently being questioned by detectives.

67-year-old Mr Williams had lived alone in Cedar Close since he moved from York Road about seven years ago.

He was was found dead on Saturday, August 8, last year.

Mr Williams was a keen cyclist until he was one day knocked off his bike and never regained the confidence to take it up again, but was also passionate about gardening and television, with his favourite programme being Last of the Summer Wine.

The theme tune to the programme was played at his funeral as his coffin was taken away, followed by Ralph McTell’s Streets of London.

DI Danny Stoten is leading the investigation into Mr Williams’ murder.

He said: "Albert Williams was a vulnerable man who lived alone in Southend. He enjoyed his own company and had a love of gardening.

"He was attacked and then murdered in his own home last year. This was a senseless attack. I believe there are people out there who know who did this. We believe that the answers to this murder lie within the local community of Southend.

"I would urge anyone that knows anything, no matter how small to contact the incident room on 01279 621802 or by calling 101. People can also give information to Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.”