A FAMILY is keeping a vigil at the bedside of a critically-ill stab victim.

Damian Stemp, 30, is fighting for his life, after being knifed in the liver and lung outside a pub in Maidstone.

Friend Sonny Tolley was also injured, suffering wounds across his neck and face.

Mr Stemp's sister, Julie Martin, said: "It is heartbreaking.

"He seems to know we are there, and squeezes our hands when we are with him."

Mr Tolley, who received stitches for wounds across his neck and face, described Mr Stemp as a true friend who always looked out for him.

"We had all been having such a nice day," he said. "It is unbelievable that this has happened."

Mr Stemp, who is known to everyone as Bod, Mr Tolley, both received stab wounds after they left the pub where they had been celebrating the birth of Sonny's nephew.

A man has appeared in court charged in connection with the incident outside the Fountain pub in Barming.

If you can help officers with this investigation, call police on 01622 604180. Alternatively contact Kent Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555111.