Five men were being quizzed by detectives last night in connection with the murder of Bradford grandfather Clement Desmier.

A 63-year-old man was arrested on Saturday and a further four men – two aged 19, one aged 22 and one aged 52 – were arrested on Sunday.

All five were being held in custody yesterday, and were being questioned on suspicion of murder, a police spokesman said.

The arrests come nearly six months into a huge police investigation, which has seen cash rewards offered for information and appeals broadcast on national television.

Clement ‘Butch’ Desmier, 68, was found dead in his armchair at his home in Rowlestone Rise, Greengates, on Thursday, August 23.

He had a pillow over his head and had suffered 70 separate injuries, including 40 stab wounds, and had been tortured before he was killed.

In the immediate aftermath of his death, police spoke to more than 700 people and distributed more than 12,000 leaflets around Greengates and Ravenscliffe appealing for information.

The charity Crimestoppers also put up a £5,000 reward for any information leading to the arrest and conviction of his killers.

In October, as devastated friends and family gathered for the funeral for the popular former musician, police renewed their appeal, looking for a breakthrough.

Detective Superintendent Mark Ridley, the detective leading the investigation, said: “I am calling on the community to come forward with any information that will help his family and friends receive the answers they deserve.”

In November, a fresh appeal from Mr Desmier's daughter, Adelle Peterson, was broadcast on the BBC’s Crimewatch.

In December, police arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of Mr Desmier’s murder, but later released him without charge.

Later that month, Mr Desmier’s son Carl Desmier made an emotional plea for anyone who knew who killed his father to contact the police.

Mr Desmier, 43, speaking exclusively to the Telegraph & Argus, described his dad as a “happy-go-lucky character” who was well- known and well-liked.

Police are still appealing for anyone with information to come forward. Contact the Homicide and Major Enquiry Team on 101 or call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

e-mail: claire.armstrong@telegraphandargus.co.uk