OFFICERS investigating a murder in Thornhill have been given more time to question the suspects.

Southampton Magistrates' Court has granted police an extra 36 hours to keep three men, aged 20, 23 and 31, in custody.

The trio were arrested yesterday at addresses in International Way and Bursledon Road in connection with the murder of Mark Noke.

The 64-year-old was stabbed in the chest in the early hours of Saturday.

He was found with significant injuries in his flat in Warburton Road.

His family have paid tribute to him, describing him as "a devoted, loving father".

DCI Dal Andrews who is leading the investigation said: “Our officers and staff are following up several lines of enquiry as we continue to establish the circumstances of what happened to Mark.

“I would like to thank the public for their support so far and the information they have supplied to us and urge anyone else with relevant information to get in touch.

“If you saw anything suspicious between 9pm on Friday, 24 February and 2am on Saturday, or have any dash cam, CCTV, ring doorbell or mobile footage that could help us, we want to hear from you.

“Even the smallest piece of information could make all the difference.”

Call 101 or report via our website, quoting Operation Hibiscus or the crime reference number 44230077698.

You can also send us information including CCTV footage online by going to https://mipp.police.uk/operation/44HC23W01-PO1 quoting the same reference number.

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or via their anonymous online form at crimestoppers-uk.org