Tributes have been paid to a "kind and professional" security guard after a shopping centre stabbing, as a man has appeared in court accused of murder.

Police were called to a stabbing at Centre MK on February 28, at around 5.10pm.

Despite life‑saving efforts, a man named by Thames Valley Police (TVP) as Gary Stanley, 52, from Milton Keynes, died at the scene.

A post-mortem and formal identification will follow in due course.

TVP said: "Mr Stanley’s next of kin are being supported by specially trained family liaison officers and our thoughts remain with the family at this extremely difficult time."

READ MORE: Man, 50, accused of murder as police name security worker dead after stabbing

On Facebook, a group called The Security Squad has shared a tribute to the man who they say was "affectionately known as Stan Stan".

Bhav, The Secuirty Squad Director, said: "I first met Stan in his time working as a Door Supervisor in the MK Theatre District whilst I was working as a police officer serving the Milton Keynes Night Time Economy.

"Once leaving the force, I passed my SIA qualifications and have put my security training to use for over 9 years, working in Nightclubs, Warehouses, Events etc.

"I'd always bump into Stan at the shopping centre whenever he was on shift (and sometimes even off shift!), and he'd always have a bright smile and a relaxed attitude, the perfect strength for a security professional.

"I'd seen Stan calm down aggressive people where most would fail, and some even thanking him for how he handled their situation.

"It's so hard to believe I'll now walk around the CMK Shopping Centre and not see his rosy face smiling at me and having a quick life catch up.

"I'm sure I'm not alone in saying thank you to you Stan, for your friendship, laughs and memories."

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In comments, community members shared memories and tributes to the security guard.

Jo Crook stated: "You will be missed by a lot of people who knew you, loved you and people who didn't know as well as others, as you were one of the gentle giants and you were taken away far too early."

David Sassoon added: "I knew Gary from school and he was a great bloke.

"Genuine kind and funny. My thoughts are with his family at this sad time."

In person, at the shopping centre on Monday, March 2, queues of people were seen waiting to sign a book of condolence for "Big Stan".

Rory Wilson, 50, from Towcester, Northamptonshire, appeared at Milton Keynes Magistrates' Court on Monday charged with murder and possession of a bladed article in a public place.

Wearing a grey tracksuit, he spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address at court.

Wilson did not enter pleas and was remanded in custody to appear at Aylesbury Crown Court on Wednesday, March 4.