TRIBUTES to a man with a "heart of gold" were paid at the funeral of a Blackburn pensioner who died after a raid at his home.

Family and friends of 86-year-old Norman Foster, of Audley Range, attended a service at Pleasington crem-atorium yesterday.

The retired Blackburn busi-nessman died hours after a burglary at his home on Thursday, May 10.

A family statement said: "Norman was a loving family man with a heart of gold, who was tragically taken from us.

"He will be sadly missed by us all, his wife Theresa, his daughter, his four grandchildren and three great grandchildren."

They told how it was the second tragedy to hit the family after they lost their eldest daughter Julie to cancer three years ago. Mr Foster had never recovered from her death.

Detective Superintendent Mick Gradwell said: "My thoughts are with Mrs Foster and her family on this very sad day.

"Mr Foster could have been anyone's father or grandfather and it is important that we identify the person who called at the house on the day before Norman Foster's death.

"I urge anyone with information to contact us. You may think that your information is not relevant but it could be crucial to our investigation.

One of the main lines of inquiry continues to focus on the scrap metal industry. DS Gradwell added: "I urge anyone who is involved in this trade to contact us if they have any information. I also appeal to local residents who have been visited by people asking to buy scrap metal recently, to come forward."

Mr Foster was born and bred in Blackburn, continuing with the family building business, which was established in 1886, until he retired 16 years ago.

He served his country for five years in the Artillery as a driver and mechanic in the War, in Germany and at Arnhem.

Police said Mr Foster was taken ill after one raider distracted him at his front door, allowing an accomplice to search his home and escape with property.

A 37-year-old man and two youths have been arrested on suspicion of burglary.

They have been released on police bail pending further inquiries.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Blackburn Police on 0845 125 35 45.