The family of murdered Stephen Pinker have paid tribute to him after he was stabbed to death outside an Oxford pub.

Mr Pinker, 43, of Burford Road, in Witney, died after being slashed across the throat outside the Corner House, in Hollow Way, Cowley, last night.

He leaves behind children Luke, 20, Emily, 17, ex-wife Sharon Pinker, and a partner, Rebecca Holmes.

Mrs Pinker said: "I met Steve when I was 15. We were childhood sweethearts and married for 21 years.

"We shared many happy times together and had two beautiful children who have lost a loving dad who will be greatly missed.

"He also sadly leaves behind his mum Jan, dad Pete, sister Becky, her husband Pat and his nieces Channelle and Lottie, brother Matthew, his wife Julie and their daughter Isis.

"He was very proud to serve his country for 12 years with the Royal Green Jackets. He will always be in our thoughts. His children want to tell him Love you so much, Dad'."