Friends and family of teenager Josh Taylor have paid tribute to the “kind hearted, bright lad” they knew and loved.

It came as a candle-lit vigil was attended by more than 100 people at the spot in Hinckley where the 18-year-old's body was discovered

Messages of condolence and flowers have been left opposite the rear car park of the Milestone pub.

Leicestershire Police named the Hinckley Academy and John Cleveland Sixth Form Centre student as being the victim of the fatal stabbing.

Officers were called to Sword Drive, off the A47 Normandy Way, at about 12.55am on Monday morning, after reports a man had been stabbed.

Josh was pronounced dead at the scene.

Flowers are left near the scene of a fatal stabbing in Hinckley

Meanhile, tributes have also been paid to Josh on Facebook - including one from his sister, Lucy.

“Knife crime is so serious these days! Cherish your siblings, take it from someone who now knows,” she wrote.

Earl Shilton Youth Cafe also posted a message to the young victim, his family and his friends.

“Josh, words can't describe how devastated we are today to hear the tragic news that you're no longer with us," it read.

“Many great memories of your time with us at Youth Cafe a few years back, a proper cheeky legend taken far too soon who will be missed by so many!”

The message continued: “Our thoughts are with all of you who had the privilege of knowing Josh, big love to you all x.”

Stu King added: “I was blessed to know Josh and his family. He was such a kind-hearted, bright lad. Truly saddened by the family’s loss.”

And Shannon Graveling wrote: “RIP Josh, I remembered him from John Cleveland College, he was a lovely lad and a good mate.”

Josh’s death has also stunned people living in the community.

Annette Potter took to Facebook to express her shock and sadness.

“Another tragic and unnecessary death of a youth," she wrote. "RIP in the safety of Heaven, young Josh.

Pearl Alfred said: “I don’t know this young man, but my granddaughter was friends with him.

“But my heart is broken.

“To all his family, extended family and friends, we send our heartfelt condolences.

“Rest in peace Josh. You were taken far too soon.”

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Police said that a post-mortem examination found that Josh died as a result of a single stab wound.

A 17-year-old was subsequently arrested. He was later charged with murder and is due to appear at Leicester Magistrates' Court on Wednesday.

Josh’s friends, meanwhile, have launched a fundraising campaign on the Go Fund Me website to raise money to pay for a memorial plaque and bench in his memory.

Kierra White, who is organising the fundraiser, wrote: “In memory of Bonehead. I think we should try to raise enough money so we can maybe put something in place of the flowers, near the Millstone, maybe a bench or a plaque.

She added: “His life needs to be celebrated and remembered, always!”

Detectives have said inquiries are at an early stage but they would like to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or have any information as to the circumstances.

Anyone with information should call the police 101 number.

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