THE sister of a man who was killed in a brutal and apparently motiveless attack in his home yesterday made an emotional appeal for information.

Sue Mileson said her brother, Colin Johnson, 40, did not have any known enemies, and that everyone was mystified at his death.

Mr Johnson's body was found by his girlfriend, Shirley Cooper, in the living room of his home in Pickering Road, Pennywell, Sunderland, at 10.30pm on Saturday, January 17.

He had suffered multiple injuries.

Ms Cooper broke down during a news conference yesterday and was unable to speak.

Ms Mileson said: "Colin was a quiet gentleman who did not have any known enemies.

"We have no idea why anyone would want to hurt him, and are desperate for people to come forward and tell police what they know.

"We are all devastated by Colin's death, and cannot move on until the person who did this is caught.

"We know there may be people out there who have information about this terrible crime."

Detective Chief Inspector Peter Farrell said: "The inquiry is progressing well, and we would like to thank those people who have come forward with information. There are still people who may have heard or seen something

"Information which they may think trivial could be vital to us."

Anyone with information is asked to call 0191-454 7555 ext 64042