Police investigating the murder of a pensioner in Ayrshire have released a description of a man they want to speak to.
Malcolm Ballantyne, 72, died after an incident in Saltcoats last Friday.
Officers are now trying to trace a man who was seen in the town's Glebe Place at around 02:30 on Friday. They believe he may be able to assist with their investigation.
The man is described as being of medium build.
He was wearing a black baseball cap and a light blue waist length jacket.
Mr Ballantyne, known as Malky, was found at his home in Glebe Place by a family member shortly after 13:00 on Friday.
Officers have been trying to establish Mr Ballantyne's movements on Thursday and Friday and are also checking CCTV.
They have carried out door-to-door inquiries and have set up an incident caravan.
Det Ch Insp Gary Cunningham said: "Mr Ballantyne was well known in the local community and his family have been devastated by this callous act.
"I would continue to appeal to anyone with information about Mr Ballantyne's death to make contact with the police. You may think the information you have is unconnected, insignificant or possibly a waste of police time.
"I would say today that this is never the case. Any information received will be appropriately investigated by officers.
"As part of our broader investigation your information could prove invaluable in tracing anyone responsible for the death of Mr Ballantyne."
- Published23 August 2015
