JUSTICE could finally catch up with the murderer of a Prestwich bookseller — 33 years after he was discovered bludgeoned to death.

Detectives from Greater Manchester Police's cold case unit are re-opening their inquiries into what one officer described as the "brutal" killing of Mr Edmund Simpson.

It is hoped that improvements in forensic technology, together with new information, could help police finally unmask the killer.

The 58-year-old was attacked with what is thought to have been a blunt instrument at the Burns' book shop near Manchester Cathedral on August 9, 1982. He died from head injuries two days later.

He had been discovered by Mr Eric Burns who co-founded the book shop, and the killer made off with around £65 and a driving licence in a wallet.

At the time, Greater Manchester Police launched a massive inquiry, but his killer still remains at large.

Mr Simpson had been described at the time by Mr Burns as "one of nature's gentlemen", Two years before his death, a man wielding a razor threatened and robbed Mr Simpson who, it is believed, had worked at the bookshop for 36 years.

Now, the force's cold case unit is undertaking a new investigation into the murder.

Detective Sergeant Julie Adams, from the unit, said: "Thirty-three years have now passed since Edmund Simpson was brutally killed in the bookshop where he worked. This case will not be closed and detectives from the cold case review unit remain positive and will explore all lines of inquiry in the hunt for Edmund's killer.

"In 2010 we explored opportunities around the case, and are doing so again now. We are considering any new forensic opportunities and other information we have received to ensure that we can pursue justice for Edmund's family."

Det Sgt Adams continued: "Edmund's daughter is obviously still very distressed about his murder and for the sake of her and for Edmund's grandchildren to find some answers and justice, I would ask that anyone who may have information on what happened, or who may know the identity of the killer, to contact the police as soon as possible on 0161 856 5961 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111."