DETECTIVES are preparing to make several more arrests over a brutal murder, after fresh evidence placed five men at the scene.

Julie Smailes, 27, was found stabbed and strangled at her home in Wingrove Terrace, Leadgate, near Consett, in October 1996.

Two weeks ago, police named married father-of-three John Thompson as her likely killer, after a DNA breakthrough.

But officers have always believed more men were involved in the computer sales manager's death.

An emotional appeal for information by Miss Smailes' mother, Joy Gilmour, at a press conference held on April 29 has led to a fresh influx of calls to police, all placing Thompson and four other men at the scene.

Det Supt Harry Stephenson, who is leading the investigation, said: "From unconnected sources, who have not spoken to us before, we have been able to build up a much clearer picture of the events of that night.

"The men who were at the house told others about what took place. We now have the names of those who were confided in and we will be speaking to them soon."

A fortnight ago, he confirmed that advances in DNA technology had uncovered microscopic traces of John Thompson's blood on a heavily bloodstained pillow found in Julie's bedroom. His blood was also found on her patio door.

The original investigation had been hampered as the killers started fires at the end-of-terrace house, in an attempt to destroy evidence.

Thompson, 27, killed himself days after the murder of babysitter Rachel Tough, 18, who was bludgeoned to death with a hammer at his home in Warwick Avenue, Moorside, Consett, in August 1998.

He was found hanging from a nearby tree. An inquest ruled his death was suicide and that he had a 'direct involvement' in Miss Tough's killing.

Following the DNA breakthrough, police confirmed that, had he still being alive, Thompson would have stood trial for Julie's murder.

Thanks to the fresh evidence gathered this week, Det Supt Stephenson is confident that more arrests will follow.

He said: "I would urge those inside Julie's house on that fatal night to save themselves the embarrassment of being arrested in front of their family and friends and give themselves up now."

Anyone with information on Julie's death should call Durham police headquarters on (0191) 3864929, or can anonymously contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.