A MAN who grew up in the New Forest has been stabbed to death on a birdwatching trip in the South African bush.

Simon Milliken, 60, was confronted by an armed attacker during an incident on August 31. He tried to create a diversion to save his friend, but was found stabbed to death the following day.

Mr Milliken was a well-respected musician in the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic Orchestra in Durban. He moved to South Africa 30 years ago after growing up in Brockenhurst and Fawley.

His mum and brother still live in Ampfield.

Mr Milliken was birdwatching with guest conductor Perry So in the Burman Bush Reserve in Durban when he was confronted by a man with a knife.

He and Mr So fled in different directions. Mr So was robbed of his bag before the knifeman then chased Mr Milliken.

The following morning, Mr Milliken was found stabbed to death.

Police are hunting for his attacker.

Fellow musician Cathy Peacock said: "What has happened leaves me beyond words, trying to process this terrible tragedy.

"Simon was always such a delight to be with, I loved him for his wry wit, for his whole-hearted enjoyment of life, not least his passion for opera, and for his kindly interest in those around him."

Bongani Tembe, the orchestra's artistic director, told a national newspaper: "Perry So believes Simon did his best to defend him and told him to run in one direction while Simon attempted to escape a different way and took the attacker away from him."

Mr Milliken first developed an interest in ringing bells through his father, who was Reverend Michael Milliken, rector of All Saints Church Fawley.

He studied at Brockenhurst College and played with the Hampshire Youth Orchestra. He joined the KwaZulu-Natal Philharmonic in 1985 and was appointed the double bassist in 1992.

On Sunday, Winchester Cathedral rang out its bells for an hour in Mr Milliken's memory.