A murder inquiry has been launched following the fatal stabbing of a man at a private birthday party being held at the home of former world boxing champion Herbie Hide.

Police were called to his home in Long Lane, Bawburgh just after midnight after receiving reports that a man in his 20s had been stabbed.

Paramedics were mobilised but the victim, believed to be a local man, was pronounced dead at the scene at 12.44am.

It is understood that as many as 300 people from all over the country may have been at the party held for the birthday of one of Mr Hide's friends.

While police enquiries continue to identify all people in attendance, it is now understood Mr Hide was not present at the time of the incident, but it is thought his wife Helen was in the property.

The isolated mansion was immediately sealed by police and Mr Hide, 40, and his family have been relocated while police carry out a forensic investigation of the property and its nine acres of grounds.

A coach which brought some of the revellers was still parked outside this morning.

Police spent the night gathering evidence from about 100 potential witnesses who remained at the scene.

Det Supt Julian Gregory, of the joint Norfolk and Suffolk major investigation team, who is overseeing the enquiry, said: 'We know this attack happened in front of many people and it is only a matter of time before we trace the offender. I would therefore ask that person to make contact with us, to give their account of what happened, before we knock on their door.

'We have already spoken to around 100 witnesses at the scene last night and I would further appeal to those people present, and who have not yet spoken to police, to make contact with the Major Investigation Team.

'We are satisfied this incident was contained within this private setting and that there are no wider issues for the local community.'

He said it appeared that the stabbing had taken place in the area of a pool bar; they were gradually building up a picture of the altercation that took place.

Formal identification procedures have yet to take place and the name of the victim will not be confirmed until such time.

Police await the outcome of a Home Office post mortem examination to establish further facts around the cause of death.

Police will continue to provide high visibility reassurance patrols in the area. Members of the local community who have any concerns are asked to contact local officers in the Costessey Safer Neighbourhood Team in the first instance.

Anyone who has information about the incident should contact police on 101 or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

*If you would like to pay tribute to the man who died, contact EveningNews24@archant.co.uk