DETECTIVES are starting to piece together the sequence of events that led to a Middlesbrough man's death a fortnight ago.

But they believe key witnesses are protecting people by withholding information out of misguided loyalty.

Despite the initial reluctance of revellers, who were in Bensons Bar on the night of the incident, witnesses are starting to come forward with vital information surrounding the death of David Cutts.

The 49-year-old is believed to have been involved in an altercation in the bar on Linthorpe Road before sustaining severe head injuries after tumbling down a flight of stairs in the building.

Senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Paul Richardson said the flow of information has increased but some vital witnesses had still not come forward.

He said: "We know that some people spoken to have perhaps, for one reason or another, not told us the full truth.

"These people will know who they are and they - and any other witnesses - can contact me directly on my mobile phone over the weekend."

Father-of-one Mr Cutts, of Nimbus Road, Marton Manor, was injured in the early hours of October 15 and his family had to take the decision to switch off his life support machine at James Cook University Hospital days later.

The managing director of the club, Abdu Shaher, has denied there was any altercation in the bar prior to Mr Cutts suffering his injuries.

He said: "We would like to make it clear that until David Cutts was found on the stair landing, the evening had been going very well with all our customers enjoying themselves.

"We have no knowledge of any incident within the bar that could have been linked to Mr Cutts' death."

A 21-year-old man and a 42-year-old woman arrested in connection with the murder, were last week released on police bail.

Anyone who can help Cleveland Police with the inquiry is asked to contact the murder incident room on (01642) 301333 or DI Richardson's mobile on 07706 585 200.