POLICE will no take action against five people arrested over the death of a 95-year-old war veteran, it has been revealed.

A murder inquiry was launched after Ralph Platten died from heart failure following a robbery at his home in Sutton, Norfolk on January 3 2006.

Among the five suspects later arrested were a 43-year-man from Middlesbrough and a man in his 30s from the Durham area in June and July last year.

Those arrested, who are all thought to be members of the travelling community, were subsequently released on bail while inquiries continued.

Yesterday, Norfolk police said that following detailed discussions involving the Crown Prosecution Service and forensic experts, the CPSs view was that there was insufficient evidence to prove a case beyond reasonable doubt.

As a consequence, no further action would be taken against the arrested men.

Mr Platten, who fought with the legendary Desert Rats in North Africa during the Second World War, was confronted by a gang of men after answering the door at his home.

He suffered a broken hip and died a day later in hospital from heart failure.

Acting Detective Superintendent Chris Hobley of Norfolk police's Major Investigation Team, said that despite the outcome, the case remained open.

He said: "This has been a complex and protracted inquiry resulting in members of the investigation team travelling to various parts of the country to gather evidence and arrest the persons suspected of involvement in Mr Platten's death.

"The outcome is disappointing but the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service on the evidence available at this time is understood and accepted.

"The case is not closed however, and if any additional information comes to light which helps the police to gather further evidence then we shall do so."