A PAIR charged with the murder of a 22-year-old man in Boscombe appeared in court today.

Richard Moors, 25, and Isabella Gossling, 20, each face one count of murder after the body of Phillip Nicholson was found at a flat in Mallard Grange, Sea Road, on Tuesday, May 26.

On Wednesday, a post mortem examination found Mr Nicholson had died from a stab wound to the neck.

The defendants, both of Sea Road, appeared separately at Bournemouth Magistrates Court this morning where they spoke only to confirm their names and addresses.

They were remanded in custody to appear at Winchester Crown Court on June 2.

Speaking on Friday night, Detective Chief Inspector Stewart Balmer, of Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team, said: "Following enquiries, we have consulted with the Crown Prosecution Service who authorised the charge of murder shortly before 9pm this evening.

"Family liaison officers have updated Phillip's family with this development and the thoughts of the investigation team are with them."

DCI Balmer said that the force is still building a picture of what happened on Tuesday and wants to hear from anybody who saw Mr Nicholson before his death, in particular anyone who may have seen or heard anything suspicious in the Sea Road area.

The victim was formally identified by family members, who are being supported by police family liaison officers.

DCI Balmer added: "We would also like to speak to anyone who had recent contact with Phillip Nicholson or who may have any information that may support the inquiry.

"We are particularly keen to speak to anyone who saw Phillip leaving his home in the Parkstone area of Poole at around 9am on Tuesday morning to just after midday when his body was discovered in the flat in Sea Road.

"At this time Phillip was wearing a grey Family Guy T-shirt, a faded red jumper with a zip from the chest upwards, charcoal grey trousers and Crocs. He also wore a black bum bag around his waist."

A statement from Mr Nicholson's family was issued, saying: "Phillip was our kind and caring son who thought the best of everyone.

"His wicked sense of humour brought a smile to many faces and his caring for other people showed no boundaries. Phillip will be dearly missed by family and friends.

"We respectfully request at this time that we are left alone to grieve."

Due to Dorset Police having had prior contact with people involved, the force has referred the circumstances leading to the incident to the IPCC for review.

Anybody with information should contact Dorset Police on 101, quoting Op Fraction.