An inquest has opened into the death of an alleged murder victim who was stabbed twice with a kitchen knife.

Adam Pritchard died following an altercation at The Queen's Head pub in The Street in Boughton-under-Blean, near Faversham, last Wednesday.

As an inquest into his death was opened today at Oakwood House in Maidstone, area coroner Katrina Hepburn told the court Mr Pritchard died due to stab wounds to his chest and abdomen.

She said the 35-year-old “turned up to the pub” on the evening of March 13 when “a fight” broke out.

Ms Hepburn added: “During the fight [Mr Pritchard] received a stab wound to the chest.”

Mr Pritchard, who lived in Cremer Place, Faversham, was then taken “into a car to get to the hospital” before an ambulance which had been called was flagged down, the court heard.

Despite efforts from the paramedics, he died at the scene in Canterbury Road, Faversham.

Ms Hepburn suspended the full inquest due to the ongoing police investigation.

William Cosier, of Well Lane, Canterbury, was arrested on March 14 in connection with the incident and later charged with murder.

The 33-year-old appeared at Maidstone Crown Court on Tuesday and spoke only to confirm his name and that he had understood the proceedings.

During the brief hearing, prosecutor Laurence Imrie said both men had been in the pub that evening before the victim was stabbed with a large kitchen knife.

A trial will be held at Canterbury Crown Court starting on September 16 and it is expected to last up to three weeks.

No bail application was made on Cosier’s behalf and he was remanded in custody.

According to police, three men aged between 37 and 42 who were also arrested have been bailed until dates in June, while two other men aged 31 and 42 were released without charge.

Tributes have since flooded in for Mr Pritchard who has been described by his family as a "generous, funny and loyal" man.

In statements shared on social media, Gemz Sweetlove said: “[I am] heartbroken for the loveliest family in Faversham. You will be sadly missed by so many.”

Amy-Jayne Lambert added: “You will be sorely missed and there will be a huge Adam-shaped hole in so many people’s lives. I will cherish my memories with you forever.”

Police officers and paramedics were called to the incident at around 10.30pm on March 13.

The Street was shut for more than 24 hours between the junctions with Arthur Kennedy Close and School Lane.