DETECTIVES investigating the death of York busker Anthony Grayson have moved the focus of their inquiry to his home city.

Officers in York and Essex initially believed that Mr Grayson, 38, who was known as Tony, suffered internal injuries as the result of an assault in Colchester, Essex.

But investigators have scaled down the Essex inquiry as a result of extensive inquiries by North Yorkshire Police and the Essex Police's Major Investigation Section.

It is now believed that the assault that lead to Mr Grayson's death took place in York.

Detective Chief Inspector Javad Ali, who is heading the inquiry, said: "Interviews already conducted lead us to believe that the assault which lead to Tony's death took place in the city."

Mr Grayson was found dead at his flat in George Street, off Walmgate, on June 4.

A post-mortem examination revealed that he had internal injuries - consistent with being kicked some days before.

Mr Ali has appealed for more information from the public regarding Mr Grayson's movements between May 20 and June 4.

He said: "For our part, every avenue will be explored, and every lead will be followed up until we learn the truth about Tony Grayson's death. Now I am asking that the public join us in that determined effort.

"The response we are getting proves to me that the people of York want this matter properly resolved. They want to help, and they want us to succeed."

Police officers, who are treating the inquiry as a major investigation, are carrying out house-to-house inquiries as well as distributing posters and interviewing friends and associates of Mr Grayson.

Mr Grayson, a known drug-user, was often seen busking around York with his black mongrel dog.

Anyone with information should call York CID on 01904 618618 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Updated: 16:06 Friday, June 28, 2002