An appeal has been launched on the anniversary of the death of a heroic husband who died defending his wife and home.

Salesman Carlton Ned, 41, sacrificed himself to save wife Donna Michael after gunmen burst into their house, Langdale Road, Thornton Heath in the early hours of July 1 last year.

Mrs Michael, 51, was grazed by a bullet as Mr Ned intervened and was shot in the chest. He was treated by paramedics but died at the scene.

One year on the Metropolitan Police, who believe Mr Ned was not the target, are offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to identification of those responsible for the murder.

Witnesses at the time described seeing the suspects, who have their faces covered, escape in a silver car along Langdale Road towards London Road.

Detectives have released CCTV images they believe show a silver Ford Fiesta which travelled up London Road towards Stockwell. The vehicle then turned left into Semley Road.

Detective chief inspector John Crossley, from Trident, said: "We need anyone who saw a silver vehicle travelling in Langdale Road or London Road, or has any information about this car to come forward. It is essential we trace the vehicle as soon as possible.

"We would like to appeal to anyone who has any information about this dreadful murder to come forward no matter how small you think it may be, your information could be vital and it is not too late."

There have been several arrests during the course of the investigation.

Arrests were made in the two months following of four men but all were later told police would not be proceeding against them There have been four more arrests of men who are bailed to return to police this month, while a fifth man has been bailed to return to police in September.

Anyone with information about the murder should call the Incident Room on 020 8733 4212 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.