THE girlfriend of stabbing victim 23-year-old Kyle Byfield said the couple had talked of moving in together and starting a family before his death.

Mr Byfield died at the Horton Hospital on April 16, after being found in Jubilee Court, Banbury, with stab wounds.

Speaking at a charity football tournament on Sunday organised by school friends in his memory, Laurie Peach, 27, who had been in a relationship with Mr Byfield for 18 months, said: “He touched everyone’s hearts.

“He was charming, a prankster, and fun to be around.

“We had lots planned, we hoped to have a child next year.”

“We always said we were partners in crime. He always put me first.”

The event took place at Broughton and North Newington Football Club near Broughton, one of the many clubs Mr Byfield had played for.

It was attended by friends and family and saw three teams play off against each other.

Ms Peach said: “The community has pulled together as a strong unit. The family couldn’t have got through it without the support that has been shown.”

Mr Byfield’s mother Roni, 49, and father Alan, 52, whose Oxford family were at the event, tragically lost their eight-year-old daughter Aleah to an asthma attack in 2005.

Mrs Byfield said of her son: “He was always happy and smiling.

“He was just a fun-loving happy chap who was always joking and teasing and always coming up with silly pranks.”

Father Alan Byfield added: “He was a loving son, I will miss him.”

The football tournament was organised by Mr Byfield’s school friends, sisters Loretta Sawers, 24, Bethany Sawers, 22, and Bronte Sawers, 20, who attended Blessed George Napier School in Banbury with him. Players paid £10 to take part and visitors got in for £5.

The money raised is to be donated to Mr Byfield’s funeral – the date for which has yet to be set – and a charity.

Loretta Sawers said: “The family have been through a lot and we just wanted them to see how much Kyle was loved.”

“We thought it would be nice for everyone to come together to celebrate his life after he was taken so tragically. We would like to say a big thank-you to everyone who has come today and all the businesses in Banbury that have supported the event.”

Jack Goode, a friend of Mr Byfield who played in one of the teams, added: “It’s a great turnout and shows how much the community care about him.”

Another friend, Steven Hunt, 26, kicked off the fundraising campaign on a Go Fund me website where the total has now reached £4,720.

To donate, visit gofundme.com/sa2d3u4v

As reported in the Oxford Mail, Natasha Capell, 26, of Jubilee Court, Banbury, appeared at Oxford Crown Court last Tuesday charged with Mr Byfield’s murder.

She was remanded in custody to appear before the same court on July 17, for a plea and case management hearing.