POLICE officers investigating the murder of a man who was stabbed to death outside a school have identified the victim and launched an appeal to trace a man they believe may have vital information.

Officers have named the victim as Alistair Maddison, 31. They have also issued a photograph of a 25-year-old man from Medway they would like to speak to in connection with the stabbing, which took place in Magpie Hall Road, Luton, Chatham at 3.40am on Thursday.

Det Insp Mike Morgan, who is leading the investigation, is keen to trace Alan Peter Sykes. He is described as white, 5ft 11ins and of medium build with blue eyes and brown hair.

Det Insp Morgan said: "We believe he may have information that could help us. I would ask him to get in touch with the police urgently. We would also like to hear from anyone who knows the whereabouts of Mr Sykes."

Police are also keen to trace a car seen close to the scene at the time of the stabbing. They are urging anyone who may know of the whereabouts of an old-style

turquoise Rover 400 saloon car, registration number N733 VTF, to come forward.

Det Insp Morgan added: "I need the public to look for this car and to let the police know is where they see it. A car of this description was seen close by around the time of the stabbing and the driver may have vital information."

Mr Maddison had been on his way to buy some cigarettes with a young female friend when the incident took place on the corner of Newnham Street.

A post mortem revealed Mr Maddison, who had been living in Medway, died as a result of being stabbed with a knife.

He was found lying in the street by a passing motorist and police patrol car and taken to Medway Maritime Hospital. He was pronounced dead at 3.40am.

Roads around the scene were closed while forensic officers carried out a detailed examination of the scene and a knife was discovered. Police have been carrying out house enquiries since the incident.

Det Insp Morgan said: "Extra officers spent time in the are talking to people and I have been pleased with the way that local people are trying to help us.

"I would like to thank the people of Luton for being patient while the police cordon was in place as we carried out forensic work.

"We still need information and I would ask anyone who may have witnessed something leading up to, or around the time of, this incident to contact us.

"It may not have been apparent that an attack was about to take place, but I need to hear from anyone who may have seen Mr Maddison and his companion together."

You can call Kent Police or Kent Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

* Police are still questioning a 39-year-old man from Brixton in London in connection with the incident. He was arrested at 2am today.