POLICE have finally released the body of Indian sailor Gregory Fernandes, who died after being attacked by about 20 youths in the centre of Fawley.

His remains are being returned to his home village in the coastal state of Goa, where he was a popular and respected figure.

The 32-year-old merchant seaman collapsed minutes after being attacked on October 20 last year - but police are still attempting to establish the cause of death.

Detectives are awaiting the outcome of "final medical tests" conducted on the sailor's body.

The results of the tests are likely to determine what, if any, charges are brought in the investigation.

Mr Fernandes's parents, Floriano and Angelina, are reported to have expressed their frustration at what they see as the lack of progress being made by police.

However, Det Chief Insp Scott Chilton said he and his colleagues would do everything possible to ensure that justice was done.

He stressed that extensive medical inquiries were being made to pinpoint the cause of death and added: "That's part of the reason there's been a delay in this investigation."

Mr Fernandes was a member of a cargo vessel that was moored alongside Fawley oil refinery.

He had been for a drink at the Falcon Hotel, Fawley, and was returning to his ship when he was subjected to what police describe as a racially aggravated assault.

A passer-by intervened and drove Mr Fernandes back to the refinery, where he collapsed and died.

Nine teenagers were arrested on suspicion of murder and other offences but a post-mortem examination proved inconclusive.

Police confirmed that the cause of death was still unknown.

No further action will be taken against one of the teenagers. The other eight are due to answer bail later this month.