JAMES Allen used to live next door to one of the murder victims, police have revealed.

Allen lived next to 81-year-old Colin Dunford in Leven Street, Middlesbrough, about a year ago although police do not believe he knew his Whitby victim, 50-year-old Julie Davison.

Cleveland Police, who have made arrests, released the information ahead of a press conference this afternoon.

Detective Chief Superintendent Gordon Lang, Head of Crime Operations for Cleveland Police, said: “There have been a number of sightings of James Allen in both force areas, which are being followed up, and a huge amount of activity has gone on overnight to find him. This is a 24/7 operation that will not stop until we locate and arrest him.

“We are trying to establish the whereabouts of a black pedal bike with suspension that we believe Allen had with him. The bike was seen outside Julie Davison’s home in Whitby and also outside Colin Dunford’s home in Middlesbrough at the time of the murders. We are keen to trace that bike.

“We also know that Allen knew Colin Dunford. He lived next door to him on Leven Street about a year ago, although at this stage we do not believe that he knew Julie Davison.

“We also believe that Allen may have been involved in a number of other offences, and these potential links are currently being investigated. He is known to police and he has a history of committing violent offences.

“Allen is described as 5 foot 7 inches tall, with a bald head and tattoos on both arms. Anyone who sees him is asked not to approach him but to contact 999 immediately.

“At this stage the motive for the murders is unclear, however our primary focus is to trace and arrest Allen.

“We would urge people to take simple security steps such as making sure their doors and windows are kept locked.

“We have over 100 officers working on the incident to trace Allen and we are continuing to focus our efforts in the Cleveland and North Yorkshire areas. If anyone who sees him or knows where he is, we would ask that they contact 999 immediately.

“If you have other information that could help with either murder please contact Cleveland Police via 101 or the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”