THE sister of a woman who was murdered by a serial rapist is says she is dreading the first Christmas without her.

There are 75 full-time officers still investigating the murder of Michelle Samaraweera, who was raped and strangled by a man who has attacked at least two other women, but no-one has been charged.

Her sister, Ann Chandradasa, 37, has spoken of her struggle to come to terms with her sister’s death. She said: “I feel like I cannot deal with it some days. There are so many memories of her and I keep going over in my head thinking, what if?

“I think it is hard because it is Christmas. It is the time of year when you are supposed to be happy but it is the first Christmas without Michelle. The whole family is feeling her missing.”

The mum-of-two added: “Michelle wouldn't want us to be miserable. I have to try to concentrate on my children and make sure they have a nice Christmas.” The body of Michelle Samaraweera, 35, was found in a children’s playground in Queens Road, Walthamstow on May 30.

Detective Inspector Stewart Hill said a DNA sweep of local men who fit the killer’s description is ongoing. A total of 1,100 samples have been taken but have not provided a breakthrough.

A possible link between the murder and a small number of other incidents is still being considered.

Det Insp Hill said: “This investigation is very much ongoing and a number of active lines of inquiry are being pursued by the investigating team who are committed to finding the individual responsible and bringing them to justice.”

Ms Chandradasa, said the family marked the six-month anniversary of her sister's death on November 30 by laying flowers in the playground and attending a church service.

She continued: “I have always thought we would be in for the long haul. But I firmly believe they will find him. I just hope it won't take too long.”

The killer has been linked by DNA evidence to the rape of a 59-year-old woman in her own bedroom, in Queens Road on March 24.

He also raped a 46-year-old woman in an alleyway in the South Grove area, off Markhouse Road, on April 22. The suspect is Asian, aged between 30 and 40, between 5ft 6ins and 5ft 10ins tall and speaks English with an accent.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the incident room on 8345 3715 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.