ALTERED IMAGE: How Patrick Cosgrove may look now.

DETECTIVES hunting the missing brother of Hampshire murder victim Patrick Cosgrove now think he has shorn off his thick hair.

Kevin Cosgrove has been missing since his younger brother was found with fatal head injuries at Kevin's Redbridge flat on April 27.

Detectives have today revealed they are satisfied Kevin - also known as Jesse - was seen in Bournemouth earlier this week with a very short haircut.

And with the help of some picture technology the Daily Echo has produced an image of what Kevin may look like today.

Det Sgt Steve Mardon, of Shirley CID, said: "We believe the sighting is positive. The man described to us had a short, grade two hair-cut."

"He could be staying in guest house or hotel accommodation. He also used to own a boat and often frequents marinas and riverside communities where he might be seen socialising in pubs."

Detectives were today showing the altered images created by the Daily Echo, to various people in Bournemouth in connection with the investigation. But police have not ruled out the possibility the 46-year-old unemployed man is still in Southampton.

"We feel he may be travelling between the two towns by a variety of means, including public transport, as he can't drive," said DS Mardon.

"We also think that he has been in contact with associates in Southampton and that they have not reported that to us. We would urge anyone who knows where Kevin is to come forward and help with our inquiry," he added.

However, it is understood Kevin has not been in touch with any of the grieving Cosgrove family since Patrick died.

The brothers were seen drinking in Southampton the night before 36-year-old Patrick - known locally as Paddy - was found at Kevin's Clover Nooke flat.

Although Kevin alerted emergency services to his brother's injuries on the morning of April 27 and was initially questioned by police he has not been seen since.

Anyone with any information is urged to contact Shirley CID on 01703 335444.

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