2:48pm Monday 18th February 2008
By Nazia Parveen
Police have released CCTV footage of a man less than an hour before he was stabbed to death.
Detectives in Preston released the footage of David Cornall who was murdered in the Ribbleton area of the city on Tuesday, February 12.
The footage shows Mr Cornall in the Fox and Grapes pub, Fox St, Preston, where he had been drinking until about 9.50pm.
On leaving the pub it is thought that he went up Fishergate, then onto Church Street to the end and made his way either into New Hall Lane or onto Miller Road.
He was then attacked near Ribbleton Park and died from a single stab wound to the back.
An appeal is being made for anybody who may have seen the 30-year-old in any of these areas between 10pm and 10.30pm.
The images show him wearing a red, hooded jacket and a distinctive, patterned, dark baseball cap.
Detective Superintendent Steve Brunskill, the officer leading the investigation, said: "I am happy with the way that the investigation is progressing but I do still believe that there are people living in the area of the attack who may have information that would assist us.
"I am aware that those people may feel reluctant to come forward but I would reassure them that any information they can provide in confidence would be treated accordingly.
"I would also be interested in speaking with a man that David was with in the Fox and Grapes pub in Preston on the night of his death.
"I would stress that we do not believe this man to be involved in the murder but do think that he may be able to help."
The man is described as in his 40s, with dark short hair, and wearing a denim shirt/jacket over a white t-shirt, dark trousers and was carrying a dark coloured shoulder bag.
The investigation team will be in the area of the attack tomorrow evening where they hope to speak with people who regularly use the routes taken by Mr Cornall on Tuesday nights.
A knife has since been found about half a mile away from the incident.
Anyone with information can contact the dedicated contact number on 01772 209076 or crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
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