A murder investigation has been launched after a post mortem examination established that a man found dead in a fire at Southend had been assaulted.

Police officers arrested a man aged in his 40s at his home in the Southend today, on suspicion of murder following a fire in Cedar Close on August 8.

Reclusive 68-year-old Albert Williams, who was estranged from his family and couldn’t read or write, died in the fire at his flat.

His death was initially treated as likely to be non-suspicious but detectives sealed off the house while further investigations were carried out.

Enquiries at the house resumed after a forensic post mortem examination on Friday showed that the man had suffered serious internal injuries.

Detectives are also investigating whether a burglary at the man’s home on August 1, when three men assaulted him and stole money, is linked to the investigation.

DCI Martin Pasmore who is leading the investigation said: "Although one man has been arrested on suspicion of murder I do not want the public to think that is an end to the matter.

"This is a complex investigation and I believe that more than one person was involved. I appeal for anyone with information to come forward."

Anyone with any information is asked to contact officers at the Major Investigation Team on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.