Detectives investigating the unsolved murder of a businessman seven years ago have launched a fresh appeal for anyone with information about his killer to come forward.

Car dealer Alex Blue, 41, died in hospital from the serious injuries he suffered after the attack outside his home in the West End of Glasgow early on Tuesday, June 25 2002.

The officers have never closed the inquiry and used Thursday's anniversary to launch a fresh attempt to bring his killer to justice and believe people who may once have been close to the person responsible hold the key.

Seven years on it is believed links or friendships may have been broken with the killer and they are now being urged to come forward.

As well as various other interests, Mr Blue and his business partner, Greg King, ran the Taxi Centre in Queensborough Gardens, Glasgow, which supplied private cars to the taxi trade.

Central to the murder investigation is the name "D Hobbs" who, according to his diary, Alex was due to meet the day before he was attacked, and a mobile phone number - 07816 992963 - scrawled on the same page.

Detective Superintendent David Swindle, who has led the inquiry since the incident, said: "I feel that seven years on people's lives and friendships change, and for whatever reason someone who may have withheld information vital to bringing closure to the relatives of Mr Blue may be reflecting on that.

"I remain confident that we will track down the killer or killers of Alexander Blue."

Despite inquiries no motive has been identified for the murder. Det Sup Swindle added: "I am acutely aware that his killer is still out there and I would like to send out a strong message that no matter how long it takes, this person will be brought to justice.

"We are utilising all possible investigative techniques, modern technology, determination and professionalism to find out who was responsible.

"I remain confident that the small piece of information necessary to bring the killer or killers to justice will come to light and, hopefully, seven years on those with knowledge will come forward."