A 76-YEAR-OLD woman who was found dead in her home in Thamesmead with her wrists and ankles tied has been named by police.

Formal identification has not taken place but officers are satisfied she is Pamela Wheeler, of New Acres Road.

Police were called to her home at around 6.25pm on Sunday and found her collapsed and bound.

She was pronounced dead at the scene.

A post mortem examination took place at Greenwich mortuary yesterday (July 24) but it did not establish a formal cause of death and police are awaiting the results of further tests.

Mrs Wheeler, a widow, was seen in the Thamesmead area last Thursday (July 19) and detectives believe this is the last known sighting of her.

Investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Gwyn said: “We believe Mrs Wheeler was last seen on Thursday by neighbours.

“She usually leaves food out in bowls for cats in the area and neighbours noticed the bowls were empty on Friday morning.

"Pamela was found dead in her own home.

“This lady was found with her wrists and ankles tied.

"This is a shocking and tragic crime, taking away all dignity and respect.

“I would urge anyone who may have any information on this murder to contact us as soon as possible."

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8721 4805 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.