ALCESTRIANS are still in shock after a man was stabbed to death in the town centre.

People were Christmas shopping on Monday as other residents laid flowers next to the blood-stained spot where 39-year-old Redditch father of four Alexander Jones was stabbed in Bleachfield Street at about 1.30am on Saturday.

A decorator - who was unaware of the tragic events - was also re-painting the window covering the now out-of-order Lloyds TSB cash machine, where the attack happened.

Alcester rector the Rev David Capron, who said special prayers for the victim's family on Sunday, said: "I'm shocked because it's on our doorstep and you never think anything like that could happen in a small town like this.

"But Alcester is part of the big, bad world like everywhere else. It's not the first murder I've heard of in the town since I've been here."

Mayor John Hill said: "I'm shocked - as I think everyone else is.

"This is the culmination of things across the town - on a small scale there have been arson attacks and repeated break-ins at one property and now this - it's time for more of a police presence in the town.

"It's difficult to say because we don't know all the circumstances but we know one thing, there's no uniformed policing after drinking hours."

Insp Tim Bailey said police patrols had been stepped up in the town.

He will be holding a meeting later this week to reassure the public.

Insp Bailey added: "One of my main priorities in the town now will be to reassure the public.

"I've already spoken to a few leaders in the community and when I've spoken to all of them, I'll be calling a meeting.

"As from Saturday, there has been enhanced policing in the town, which will continue for the next few weeks."

A murder inquiry was launched on Sunday and an incident room has been set up at Stratford Police Station.

Officers are appealing to anyone drinking in town centre pubs late on Friday night who may have information to call 01926 415796 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.

Three men have been arrested in connection with the killing.

Two, one aged 38, from Birmingham, and one aged 24, from Alcester, are being questioned at Leamington Police Station.

They were both treated for lacerations to their hands and returned to custody on Sunday night.

A third man has been released on police bail pending further inquiries.