THE INVESTIGATION into the murder of an artist has stalled after it emerged that no action will be taken against the only suspects.

Two men were arrested soon after Clive Enkel was beaten to death in his Abridge home as he tried to protect his 90-year-old father from a group of men with baseball bats.

But after being released and answering bail on three occasions, no further action will be taken against the 19-year-old from Benfleet and a 38-year-old from Hertfordshire.

Mr Enkel, who was described as a quiet, warm and giving man, did not regain consciousness following the attack and died two days later.

Police describe the attack as motiveless and where focusing their attention on a group of men who were seen in the area knocking on doors and asking for casual work.

Detectives desperate for a new lead have renewed appeals for information about the murder in Alderwood Drive on September 25.

Senior investigating officer, Det Supt Tracy Hawkings, said: “The attack on Clive Enkel was horrendous and his death has left his family devastated.

“Nearly a year after his murder we have yet to find those people responsible for bringing his life to a cruel and untimely end.

“I am thankful that this type of crime is very rare, and I am confident that someone must have information which will help us bring these people to justice.

“There must be someone out there who has information about this case which could have been playing on their minds for some time.

"I urge you to come forward with that information as it may be key to helping us catch these criminals.

"Your information will be treated in the strictest confidence so if you know anything at all please contact us or Crimestoppers anonymously.”

Anyone with information should contact the Major Investigation Team on 0300 333 4444 extension 75229 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.