The village where tragic Molly McClaren grew up is in mourning over her untimely death.

The university student, who was fatally stabbed in the car park of Chatham's Dockside Outlet Centre, was much-loved in Cobham where she lived with her parents.

Joshua Stimpson, from High Street, Wouldham, appeared in court on Friday afternoon charged with the 23-year-old’s murder.

Molly worked part-time in the popular Leather Bottle pub in The Street, where staff are said to be devastated at her passing.

Owner Susan Treleavan said: “A beautiful life has been taken away. All of my staff were so close to her and have been deeply affected. It’s a small village and we are in shock.”

Pub manager Sara Saunders, who has lived in the village for 17 years, said she offered Molly an interview for a job behind the bar when she bumped into her at the Cobham Community Stores where her mother Jo worked as a volunteer.

She said: “The customers loved her. She was beautiful, lovely natured, kind-hearted, just perfect.

“I have a daughter of her age. I just cannot imagine what her family are going through.”

A barman, who did not wish to be named, said: “All I can say was that she was lovely person.”

Her mother has worked at the community shop in The Street for three years and Molly was a regular customer.

A shop worker, who spoke anonymously, said: “She was full of life. I don’t think anyone could say a bad word about her.

“They are a lovely family and our thoughts are with them.”

Molly’s family did not wish to comment at length.

Dad Douglas said: “It goes without saying she was a wonderful daughter.”

Meanwhile, the University of Kent has released a statement paying tribute to the popular student.

It said: “We offer our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Molly McLaren following her sudden death.

“She was a popular student in the School of Sport and Exercise Sciences.

“Fellow students and staff are being offered any counselling they require to help them at this difficult time.”