A man has appeared in court this morning accused of the murder of father James Wallington, who was stabbed to death at a rubbish tip.

David Squelch was charged with murder yesterday following Mr Wallington's death at Cory Environmental Ltd, a recycling centre in North Farm Lane, Tunbridge Wells, on Monday morning.

Squelch, of Maidstone Road, Paddock Wood, appeared at Sevenoaks Magistrates’ Court accused of stabbing the 44-year-old to death after reportedly sharing a lift to work with him.

Dressed in a grey tracksuit and flanked by two officers, the 48-year-old spoke to confirm his name, age and address.

There was no application for bail and Squelch was remanded in custody to appear at Maidstone Crown Court on Friday, March 27.

Since the tragedy, Mr Wallington's daughters have paid tribute to him on Facebook.

Sophie Wallington wrote: "I can't even put into words how devastated I am at the death of my one in a million Dad taken from us in such a cruel way. RIP James Wallington, you will be missed by so many.

"Don't know how anyone could do this to such a lovely man. Thank you for bringing me up as your own. I'm so proud you are my dad I just wish I could have seen you one last time. I love you forever."

Another daughter, Maisy Wallington, added on her Facebook page: "Rest in peace to the best dad in the world.

"Words can't describe how devastated we all are, such a horrible way to go. You're forever in our hearts and we love you eternally - you're an angel in heaven now where you belong. I love you so much daddy."

A friend of Mr Wallington also paid tribute, describing the victim as "one of the nicest people you could ever wish to meet" telling KentOnline that "he'd never hurt a fly" - before adding "I love you mate, we're all going to miss you".

Police and ambulance crews were called to the site at 6am on Monday, after the victim and accused reportedly shared a lift to work.

One witness described seeing "lots of police" arrive outside the site, followed by forensics officers who erected a white tent.

The body was taken away in a private ambulance at around lunchtime.

An ambulance spokesman confirmed two cars and two ambulances were sent to the scene just after 6am, as well as the air ambulance.

But despite the efforts of medics, Mr Wallington died at the scene.

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