FRIENDS returned home from holiday on Sunday to find the murdered body of the man who had been looking after their house.

The 49-year-old, Thomas Pearson from Hackney, had been looking after the home in Ferndale Road, Leytonstone, while his friends enjoyed a week away.

But when the owners returned last Sunday evening they discovered his body.

Police were called to the scene by the London Ambulance Service at 9pm.

But a post mortem carried out on Tuesday at Walthamstow Coroner's Court left officers baffled after no cause of death could be ascertained.

At the time of going to press, no arrests had been made and police said they were keeping an open mind as to the motive for the killing.

Detective Chief Inspector Richard Langley, who is leading the investigation, said: "At this stage we cannot say too much about the man's injuries as the exact cause of his death has still to be identified.

"However, it is clear that this man was murdered some time between June 30 and July 7, when the home owners returned from holiday."

Police are appealing to anyone who may have any information about Mr Pearson's lifestyle or who may have seen him between June 30 and July 7 to come forward with information.

Anyone who can help should contact DCI Langley at the Serious Crime Group East on 8345 1570.

Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, call CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111.

July 11, 2002 10:00