Two 36-year-old men arrested on suspicion of murdering a pensioner remain in police custody today.

Dozens of officers descended on an estate in Golford, near Cranbrook, in the early hours of yesterday.

Police confirmed it was in connection with the investigation into the death of 73-year-old Roy Blackman who was found beaten to death at his home in Biddenden last Monday.

Police remained at the property throughout Thursday and were seen removing evidence bags and carrying out door-to-door inquiries.

The raid followed the arrest of a 49-year-old man last Wednesday. He was later released on bail until Thursday, April 28.

Detectives have been searching for a large safe - described as being a 5ft tall, metal, mustard-coloured heavy duty cabinet - which was taken from Hearsay Cottage where Mr Blackman lived.

A post mortem conducted last week found that well-known mechanic and bird breeder died of multiple blunt force injuries to the head, neck, chest and abdomen.

Smarden parish councillor Brian Bristow paid tribute to Mr Blackman today. He said: "My wife and I bought our house from his parents in Smarden in 1974 and I have known Roy and his family ever since.

"He lived nearby before moving to Biddenden. Roy always ran an excellent garage in Smarden and then in Biddenden.

"He was charming in every way and ran a good business. His death is shocking and he will be very sadly missed."

Anyone with any information on this case is asked to contact the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate on 01303 289600.

Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 quoting incident reference 21-0203.