THE family of a father-of-five who was shot dead in Chingford have issued a new appeal for help in catching his killer, as they prepare to spend their first Christmas without him.

Wayne Powell, 39, was mysteriously gunned down on Tuesday July 5 in Higham Station Avenue as he made his way home from a nearby gym just after 11pm.

No progress has been made in the murder investigation and his family are clinging to the hope that witnesses may come forward to help crack the case.

His grieving fiancée Anne Boriel, who gave birth to his child three months after his death, is set to release dozens of balloons appealing for help on Thursday (December 23), on what would have been his 40th birthday.

She said: "It's been so difficult these past few months, but I have to keep Wayne's memory alive and remind people out there that the police need help and need information to catch the person that did this.

"I just want closure for me and my family's sake.

"I'm dreading Thursday and Christmas Day. I had been with Wayne for 11 years and not to have him around at this time of year is going to be tough. We've all had to have counselling recently it's been so bad.

"He used to do a radio show which I used to tape, and I've been listening to a lot of them recently which has helped. Hearing his voice is a great comfort.

"Our little boy is doing well and he'll be three months old in January. Everytime he looks at me I see his dad."

A man was initially arrested in connection with the shooting but he was later released without charge. Police said they are mystified over a motive for the killing and that Mr Powell was not involved in any criminal activity.

Anyone who can assist with the police investigation is urged to contact the incident room on 020 8733 4704.

Call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 to remain anonymous.

Click here to follow the Waltham Forest Guardian on Twitter