DOZENS of villagers are to undergo DNA tests as detectives close in on the murderer of a man who was attacked as he walked home from a country pub.

David Williamson suffered a fractured skull after he was struck from behind by a blunt object on the quiet road between Sutton-on-the-Forest and Huby, near Easingwold, North Yorkshire, and later died in hospital.

The detective leading the investigation yesterday revealed a major breakthrough in the case after scientific tests produced a DNA profile believed to be that of the killer.

About 80 people in the two villages will be visited at their homes for the tests, although the number could be increased.

Detective Chief Inspector Nigel Boynton said: "At the time this incident was reported we carried out an extensive examination of the scene.

"Scientific testing has been on-going and those tests have now provided us with a DNA profile, which could be that of the killer. I am hopeful that this could be the major breakthrough we have been looking for."

Dog walkers and people who used the footpath around the time of Mr Williamson's death will be the first to be tested.

Drinkers who were in the Star Inn at Huby on the night of March 25 - the last time Mr Williamson was seen alive - will also be visited by police.

Two appeals for information have been made on the BBC Crimewatch programme, resulting in several anonymous callers giving the same name of a possible suspect.

Mr Boynton said he was anxious to hear from those people again and would speak to them in person if necessary. A £5,000 reward has also been offered by Crimestoppers.

Anyone with information should contact the incident room on (01904) 669431.