Man found stabbed to death 'could have been dead for some time'

A murder investigation is underway after a 74-year-old man was found with multiple stab wounds at his flat in Nottingham.

Barry Spooner was discovered at an address in Gladstone Street in Forest Fields on Wednesday, but police believe he could have been dead for some time.

He was found after concerns were raised about his welfare.

A 58-year-old man and a 44-year-old woman have been arrested on suspicion of murder.

A second man, who's 53, is being held on suspicion of assisting an offender.

All three remain in police custody as investigations continue.

His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained detectives.

Detectives are appealing to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in the area towards the end of May.

Mr Spooner was born and raised in Nottingham and also lived in Germany during his time with the Royal Signals regiment.

His family said: “Barry was a kind and gentle man loved by all in our family.

"He was a great brother and a dear uncle who was taken away far too early.

"He will be sadly missed by all.

"He was a devoted family man who would help anyone in need.

"It is sad for us that no farewell words were spoken and that we had no time to say goodbye to him. He was gone before we knew it.

Detective Chief Inspector Clare Dean, of Nottinghamshire Police, said: “It is clear that Barry died a very violent death and we are doing everything we can to find out what happened and who is responsible for this crime.“

"We believe he may have been dead for some time before his body was found, and would like to speak to anyone who saw or heard anything suspicious in this area towards the end of May.

“As our investigations continue over the coming days, our thoughts will remain with Barry's family at what we know will be an extremely difficult time.