Two men have been released and four remain in custody as police continue to investigate the suspected murder of a man described as "generous, funny and loyal".

Detectives were called to The Street in Boughton under Blean on Wednesday night following reports of a stabbing, with it confirmed yesterday the alleged attack was fatal.

Following the tragedy, many tributes have been paid to Adam Pritchard, who was in his 30s.

Police confirmed a murder investigation has been launched and six arrests were made after officers were called to a disturbance shortly after 10.30pm.

The force attended with paramedics and a man was found with injuries consistent with a stabbing. He was pronounced dead near the scene.

In an update today, a police spokesman said: “Four men, aged between 33 and 42, who were arrested remain in police custody.

“Two other men, aged 31 and 43, have been released without charge.”

Armed police were also seen in Colonels Lane yesterday morning.

Police are appealing for information on the incident and have asked for witnesses to come forward.

There was a huge emergency response, with police and ambulance crews descending on the scene and an air ambulance landing nearby on Wednesday night.

The Street was shut for more than 24 hours between the junctions with Arthur Kennedy Close and School Lane, with diversions in place via Bull Lane and Staplestreet Road. It has since reopened.

Mr Pritchard’s family shared the devastating news of his death on Facebook, describing him as "generous, funny and loyal".

Others shared tributes on social media, with Gemz Sweetlove writing: “[I am] heartbroken for the loveliest family in Faversham.

“You will be sadly missed by so many.”

Amy-Jayne Lambert posted: “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.”

Froggy Cooper added: “I can’t believe I woke up to this sad, sad news today.

“Words really cannot explain the heart.

“I will cherish the times we had and the days me and your brother, Luke, used to box together.”

Rachael Allum said: “You will be sorely missed. So many great memories.”

Residents told of their shock as they heard the commotion on Wednesday night and woke to the police cordon on Thursday morning.

Brian Gentry, 70, who lives next to the pub in Arthur Kennedy Close, said: “I knew something was strange because I saw the pub lights were on late last night.

“I heard a police helicopter for a good couple of hours.

“It's very unusual because you do not expect anything like that. There is normally no trouble at the pub.”

The Queens Head pub was cordoned off, with forensics seen going in and out.

There was also a cordon half a mile along The Street, and a white tent was erected near a bus stop.

Vicar Cathrine Ngangira told KentOnline the incident is “very concerning”.

She added: “It is so close to the school.

“It was a shock to see this happening in our community.

“The pub is one of the most used spaces in our village and I’m wondering if adults and children here will feel safe.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information, CCTV or dashcam footage which may assist enquiries, is urged to call police on 01795 419119 quoting reference 13-1461.

You can also call the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or complete the online form.