TWO men arrested in connection with the murder of Jim Attfield had their bail extended yesterday.

The 33-year-olds from Colchester will answer bail again in September.

Two 27-year-olds arrested on suspicion of the same offence will answer bail tomorrow.

Jim Attfield, 33, of East Bay, Colchester, was found shortly before 6am, on Saturday, March 29, stabbed 102 times on a path near Castle Park.

On Tuesday, June 17, Nahid Al-Manea, 31, of Woodrow Way, left home on her way to a lecture at Essex University at about 10am.

Shortly before 10.40am she was found dead, stabbed 16 times on a path on the Salary Brook Trail.

Detectives are running separate but parallel investigations into the murders.

They continue to search for a man and woman on a park bench near Castle Park, and close to where Jim was found, at 11.30pm on Friday, March 28.

Det Chief Supt Steve Worron said: “We have had some responses regarding the man and woman on the bench but we don’t have a positive identification.

“There have been numerous people suggested but they have been ruled out.

“It is important we find out who they are.”

He is also looking for a woman Jim spoke about fondly and repeatedly on Facebook who sang karaoke with him and enjoyed dancing and pottery.

He said: “The public are trying to help but we have not had that golden nugget of information.”

He also praised Jim's family for their patience and understanding as the investigation goes into a fifth month.

He said: "We continue to give active support to James’ family. His mum, Julie Finch, has been very helpful. We remain in regular contact.

“All those working on murder investigations make personal and professional commitments to bring the killer to justice.

“To not be able to bring someone to justice for such a horrible crime is not something we are willing to accept.

“The family liaison officer is providing support. They do a fantastic job.

“Her family demonstrate a real understanding and continue to demonstrate patience. I thank them for all their help and understanding.”

Murder detectives recently briefed Home Secretary Theresa May about the murders during a recent visit and those leading the investigations praised both the public and other organisations for their support.

Mr Worron explained the help Esex Police had received from Colchester Garrison.

He said: "I cannot thank the Colchester Garrison enough for its support.

“We used the Garrison for briefings, as a base, for accommodation and refreshments.

“They provided a lot of equipment and the Royal Military Police provided invaluable support on the reassurance patrols.”

Colonel Gary Wilkinson OBE, Commander of Colchester Garrison, said: "As part of the local community in Colchester we stand ready to support local government and the emergency services when it is necessary, appropriate and requested."

Help the police by calling the incident room on 01245 282103.

Alternatively Crimestoppers is offering a £10,000 reward for information leading to the killer or killers being caught and convicted.

Any information given is anonymous.

Call 0800 555111 if you can help.