MURDER squad detectives are trying to piece together the final movements of a Southampton dad who was found dead in an alleyway.

The body of divorced Alec Newman, 50, was discovered at the rear of a house in Cranbury Avenue, Newtown, early on Friday, after police were called to a disturbance in the area.

A post-mortem confirmed he had died from multiple injuries but today it was not yet clear whether or not a weapon had been used.

Police said Mr Newman, who had grown-up children, had been staying with a friend in St Matthew's Close, St Mary's, at the time of his death.

He was understood to be estranged from his immediate family, who have since been traced and informed of his death.

A team of Hampshire detectives is continuing to investigate the murder from a major incident room based at Hulse road divisional police headquarters in Southampton.

The inquiry, codenamed Operation Stakehill, is being led by Det Supt Andy Stewart.

Police hunting Mr Newman's killer have questioned three people in connection with the fatal attack. All have been released on bail, pending further inquiries.

Meanwhile, a fourth man is awaiting questioning while he receives treatment for non-life threatening injuries at South-ampton General Hospital.

Murder squad detectives want to hear from anyone who knew Mr Newman and may be able to provide information about his movements last Thursday through to the early hours of Good Friday.

Any information to the Operation Skatehill incident room on 0845 045 4545, or the anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.