Four people have been arrested after a man was stabbed to death prompting a massive police cordon in Canterbury city centre.

A murder investigation has been launched after officers were called to a disturbance in the High Street, near the junction with St Margaret's Street, shortly after 11.30pm.

A man in his 20s found with injuries consistent with stab wounds died at the scene, police say.

Four men have been arrested in connection with the incident and taken into custody while enquiries continue.

A huge cordon has been placed in a part of Canterbury High Street as officers remain in the area to help establish the facts.

There is a heavy police presence in the city centre, with forensics officers among those working at the scene.

A large part of the high street remains inaccessible, with police guarding cordons in St Margaret’s Street, along the High Street, down Guildhall Street and in Stour Street behind the Sainsbury’s Local store.

The gates from the Marlowe Arcade leading to St Margaret’s Street are also locked, while a private ambulance could be seen leaving at about 10.45am.

Officers at the scene say they do not know how long the cordon will be in place, but it could be all day.

Traders told of their shock after arriving to work a stone’s throw from crime scene this morning.

Tamas Toth, owner of the Gourmet Sausage and Burger Company, said: “I arrived at 8.15am and the police were here. About 10 officers I would say, and four police cars at least.

“At 8.30am a private ambulance came.

“There's quite a big cordon, people have to go all the was round to get to us.

“It is very very sad what has happened.”

One shop owner who asked to remain anonymous said: “It was a bit of a shock to see all the police here when I came in.

"We closed about 8pm and didn't hear anything."

Anyone who has information about the incident and has yet to speak to officers is urged to call Kent Police on 01843 222289 quoting reference 46/172197/24.

You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete their online form on their website.