The family of an Angus man murdered four years ago are losing faith that his killer will be brought to justice as they mark the fourth anniversary of his death.
The brother of Tony English admitted that his confidence in Scottish authorities is seeping away.
Mr English was found stabbed to death in his Carnoustie flat in December 2011 but no one has been prosecuted for the murder.
And on the eve of the anniversary of his death, Mr English’s family in his native Northern Ireland said it has been almost three years since they updated on any investigation by Police Scotland or the Crown Office.
Damian English said: “I’d like to say that we’re holding on to hope that he’ll be brought to justice, but I’ve lost confidence in it happening.
“All contact was initiated by me and I’ve had no contact from DCI (Iain) Wales or anyone else for about three years.
“I did a video conference with him from Lisburn Police Station and he assured me they were still trying to catch the murderer.
“But he is still walking the streets in Carnoustie.
“I’ve thanked the good people of Carnoustie for the way they tried to help and they were good to my brother for 30 years. But a murderer is still walking freely among them.”
Police Scotland submitted a report to the procurator fiscal three years ago, and it is understood the circumstances of the case are reviewed on a yearly basis.
Mr English had lived in Carnoustie for around 30 years, having moved from County Antrim in Northern Ireland.
He worked as a driller for an offshore firm in Aberdeen and as a golf caddie.
The 59-year-old was found dead in his Kinloch Street cottage on the Sunday morning.
A full-scale police investigation was launched and dozens of officers took part in the operation.
Forensic detectives were also called in, while officers spoke to hundreds of locals in a bid to uncover information about the death.
There were more than 300 people interviewed by officers.
A man was charged with the murder in February 2012, but was later freed by the Crown Office.
The Crown Office previously stated that there was “insufficient evidence” to take criminal proceedings but “reserves the right” to bring new proceedings if further evidence come to light.
A police spokeswoman said yesterday: “Police Scotland can confirm that a report was submitted to the procurator fiscal in 2012 … Anyone with further information is asked to call 101 or anonymously via the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”