Four men have been arrested as part of a murder investigation after a man was stabbed to death in Canterbury city centre, with a large police cordon in place.

Officers were called to a disturbance in High Street, near the junction with St Margaret's Street, at 11.31pm.

Emergency services attended and a 23-year-old man was found with injuries consistent with stab wounds. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Four men, who are all in their 20s, have been arrested as part of the investigation and remain in custody.

Searches have been carried out at properties in Herne Bay High Street and near Pine Tree Avenue, Canterbury, as part of ongoing enquiries.

Officers are working to reduce the size of a huge cordon which was put in place in Canterbury High Street and St Margaret's Street overnight.

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

A large part of the high street has been 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 have also been locked, while a private ambulance could be seen leaving at about 10.45am.

Traders told of their shock after arriving to work a stone’s throw from the 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."

Canterbury District Commander Chief Inspector Paul Stoner said: “We understand that this incident and its location will have caused concern in the community and I would like to reassure people that we have a large team of officers and detectives working to establish the full circumstances.

“I thank residents and businesses for their understanding and assistance as we continue our enquiries in the city centre.

“We are working to reduce the impact on local firms wherever possible, whilst ensuring we collect the best possible evidence as part of our investigation.”

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.