The trial of a 23-year-old Suffolk man accused of murdering Lowestoft father Scott Tarrant last weekend is expected to take place in January next year.

Before Ipswich Crown Court today was Steven Butcher, of Ashfield Crescent, Lowestoft, who spoke only to give his date of birth and nationality.

The case was adjourned until September 3 for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Ipswich Crown Court and Butcher was remanded in custody.

There was no application for bail and Butcher was told his trial, which is expected to last up to seven days, would probably get underway on January 2 or January 14 next year.

Twenty-eight-year-old Mr Tarrant died at the James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston after he suffered stab injuries at a home in Underwood Close on Saturday night.

Police were called to Underwood Close at 11.14pm.

In a statement, Mr Tarrant’s family said: “Scott was a fabulous son and brother who was always bubbly and able to find laughter in his life. He was also a fantastic father who adored his children.

“As a family we have been ripped apart by his passing and know that he has left a void which will never be filled.”