The parents of a man who died after being stabbed have thanked people who have been supporting them.

Nitu Babu Das died in the early hours of Monday after an incident in Meadow Lane, Loughborough.

He suffered a single stab wound and was taken to the town's NHS walk-in centre but was pronounced dead shortly after 2.45am.

The 23-year-old's parents, Jantu and Rina, of Cleeves Mount, Loughborough, have been left devastated by the killing.

"Nitu was a dearly loved son who will be deeply missed," said Mr Das, a taxi driver.

"This is a very hard time for my family and I would like to thank all of those who have and are continuing to support us.

"It has been nice to hear from some of Nitu's friends who have been in touch since his death and provided kind words. It comforts us to know he had so many caring friends.

"I would like to say thank you to everyone who has helped with the inquiry so far and to all the local communities who have offered and given us their support.

"In particular, I would like to thank both the Muslim and Hindu communities who have offered their support and prayers.

"My wife Rina and I are very grateful."

Hundreds of people have visited tribute pages set up on Facebook in memory of the former Limehurst High School pupil.

Andrew Smith, 38, and Elaine Pendery, 45, of Cartwright Street, Loughborough, appeared in the town's magistrates court yesterday jointly charged with murder.

Pendery, who wept during the short hearing, faces an additional charge of perverting the course of justice by concealing evidence.

The court's small public gallery was filled with friends of the victim.

Both Smith and Pendery were remanded in custody. They will next appear at Leicester Crown Court.

A friend of the Das family told the Leicester Mercury: "That young man's death has been a huge blow to his parents.

"They're good people and they should not have to deal with something like this.

"It's caused a lot of anger among the boy's friends."

Councillor Jewel Miah, who represents the Loughborough East division on Leicestershire County Council, said: "This was a shocking event.

"I am pleased to say such incidents are rare but that is of no consolation to a family who are now mourning one of their children."

Police are still keen to hear from anyone who might have witnessed a disturbance in Meadow Lane, where it bridges the Grand Union Canal, between 2.10am and 2.35am on Monday.

Anyone with information should call them on 0116 222 2222 or ring Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.