A DOOR-to-door sales firm is at the centre of the police probe into the brutal attack on an 89-year-old war veteran, it has emerged.

Detectives yesterday arrested all 16 employees of the un-named firm over the assault on Bob Schofield, of Salterforth.

Officers said they believed the firm had been operating in the village selling household goods and may have visited Mr Schofield’s home.

The men, aged between 17 and 55, were arrested in Blackpool on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary.

All the men were released this morning on police bail pending further enquiries.

Mr Schofield was repeatedly punched when he confronted intruders in his Salterforth home earlier this week.

The graphic police picture showing Mr Schofield’s horrific injuries has added to the community’s sense of great disgust at the crime.

Acting Detective Inspector Dave Groombridge, who is leading the investigation, said: "I would still appeal for anyone who may have information about this dreadful offence to come forward and speak to us, including those in the criminal fraternity who may be able to help.

“We do have a number of lines of inquiry which we are actively pursuing.”

Mr Schofield and his wife Mollie, 87, were asleep in bed when intruders entered their home, in Chapel Hill, in the early hours of Monday morning.

The war veteran, who served in the Royal Navy during World War Two, crewing escort ships on North Atlantic convoy missions from Scarpa Flow to Murmansk, confronted the intruders and was beaten.

His bed-ridden wife Mollie, 87, was not physically injured, but was left in a state of shock and is currently being cared for at a care home.

Detectives believe cash and jewellery were stolen.

The couple were discovered by relatives hours after the attack when neighbours noticed the curtains were undrawn, which they said was out of character for them.

Mr and Mrs Schofield were both taken by ambulance to Airedale Hospital where Bob remains.

His condition is said to be improving slowly.

Earlier this week, members of his family slammed the attackers, labelling them ‘scum’ and ‘lowlife.’

Members of the Salterforth community said they were ‘shocked’ and ‘appalled’ by the incident and called for harsh punishments for the ‘brutal’ attackers.

Extra patrols have been put on in the Salterforth area, but police are stressing this type of attack is ‘rare.’

Mr and Mrs Schofield’s son John and their daughter-in-law Dee have thanked everyone who has sent cards, flowers and messages of goodwill.

Anyone with information should call Pendle CID on 01282 472644 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.