THE detective leading the investigation into a brutal murder said the people of York would "not tolerate naked aggression and violence in our streets".

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Barlow spoke out as he called for more public support to find who was behind the savage attack on Michael Brolly in the city centre on Sunday night.

Meanwhile four people arrested in connection with the incident in Low Ousegate have all now been released.

Police said they expected the inquiry to be long and involve many people, and promised further arrests.

A man arrested on Sunday evening in connection with a fracas in George Hudson Street, prior to the attack in Low Ousegate, is on police bail.

A 32-year-old, arrested in the city on Monday, has been charged with affray and will appear at York Magistrates on Friday.

A man and woman, also arrested on Monday, have been bailed until October 18 while enquiries continue.

Det Chief Insp Barlow said his team was gathering a lot of evidence and is making very positive progress.

"We are now following several lines of enquiry and I expect further arrests," he said.

"The investigation is gaining momentum as increasing numbers of people come forward either to tell us what they saw happening in the city centre on Sunday evening or to tell us what they know about the events leading up to Mr Brolly's sudden and shocking death.

"I expect a long inquiry which will involve many interviews and a great deal of verifying and double-checking statements.

"We need the public's support in all this."

DCI Barlow said there were still people who had not come forward, but added: "There is a growing feeling in York that residents will not tolerate naked aggression and violence in our streets and people are coming forward in growing numbers to help us.

"Nonetheless we still want witnesses, especially to events in Edwards pub earlier on Sunday evening."

It is believed that the violence started in Edwards and detectives want to hear from anyone who was there on Sunday evening.

Anyone who can help should call York Police on 01904 631321 immediately.

Updated: 10:26 Wednesday, September 19, 2001