Detectives have started a new investigation into the death of a butcher whose body was found in a swimming pool at the home of entertainer Michael Barrymore more than five years ago.
Police said they had decided to launch a fresh inquiry into the death of 31-year-old Stuart Lubbock after reviewing the original investigation.
The Lubbock family's lawyer said detectives had identified 10 "specific and promising lines of inquiry". Mr Lubbock's father Terry - and Mr Barrymore - welcomed the inquiry.
"I have waited nearly six years to find out what happened to my son," said Terry Lubbock. "Now I believe the police have made a breakthrough."
Mr Barrymore, who is appearing in Scrooge at His Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen, added: "I am delighted and thrilled and I will give my full support and hope the case can come to some conclusion for everyone's sake." He said he was "willing to give every single assistance I can to bring closure to this matter".
Mr Lubbock, from Harlow, Essex, was found dead at Mr Barrymore's home in nearby Roydon in March 2001. A lengthy investigation was carried out by Essex Police but no-one was charged with any offences in relation to Mr Lubbock's death.
Mr Barrymore accepted an official caution for drugs offences following the inquiry.
A coroner recorded an open verdict following an inquest in September 2002.
Mr Lubbock had been among a number of people at a party at Mr Barrymore's home. Post-mortem tests showed that he had suffered severe internal injuries which suggested sexual assault.
Alcohol plus ecstasy and cocaine were found in his bloodstream.
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