A Staplehurst man remains in police custody today while police question him over the murder of Biddenden villager Roy Blackman.

The 37-year-old is the fifth person to be arrested following the brutal death of the 73-year-old pensioner, whose body was found in his bungalow almost four weeks ago.

In murder inquiries, police can hold a suspect for 96 hours before either releasing or charging them.

The man was arrested at 10.20am on Thursday, meaning a decision must be made by 10.20am tomorrow.

Mr Blackman died from multiple blunt force injuries to his head, neck, chest and abdomen during a violent burglary in the early hours of Monday, March 21.

Detectives continue to search for a large mustard-coloured safe stolen during the incident.

The four other men previously arrested have all been released on police bail.

Mr Blackman, a mechanic and bird breeder, was well-known at Maidstone Market. His friends described him as generous and hard-working.