POLICE investigating the murder of Greenock man Michael Mearns say they want to trace a man who was spotted on CCTV near the scene.

Mr Mearns, who was 56, found with serious injuries at Greenock Cemetery on 30 July and died in hospital the next day.

Police Scotland said today that they want to trace a man spotted on CCTV standing on the road between South Street and Nelson Street, at the side of the roundabout, at about 7.50pm on the evening Michael, pictured, was found.

Detective Chief Inspector Laura McLuckie, from the Major Investigation Team, said: "He appears to be looking directly over towards the cemetery about 10 minutes before police were called and Michael was found seriously injured.

"It is essential that we trace him to find out what he saw that night as it may be crucial to our investigation."

The man is described as being white, 40-60 years old and of medium build. He is between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 9ins tall, with short light brown or greying receding hair. Police say he may have tattoos on his forearms.

The man was wearing a dark blue short sleeved shirt and dark jeans slightly faded on the front, and he had dark shoes.

DCI McLuckie added: "A team of highly experienced officers are dedicated to this inquiry and are continuing to gather any information that will help trace who is responsible for Michael's death.

"Any information we receive will be investigated by officer and we are still appealing for people to contact us at Greenock Police Office via 101."