A RESTAURANT manager killed at a leading Oxfordshire golf club was decapitated, it has emerged.

Yesterday the shocked family of Christopher Varian paid tribute to the 32-year-old who “would not hurt a fly”, while work colleague Jonathan Limani appeared before Oxford magistrates charged with murder.

Mr Varian was found dead in a delivery area behind the £6m hotel at The Oxfordshire Golf Club, in Milton Common, near Thame, on Saturday. He had been decapitated.

A tribute released by Mr Varian’s family last night said: “Chris was a wonderful person, everyone’s friend.

“You could not wish to find a harder and more honest worker.

“He was truly a gentleman who wouldn’t hurt a fly.

“His passing leaves a hole in this family which can never be filled or forgotten.”

Police were called to the prestigious golf club at 3pm, but Mr Varian had died from his horrific neck injuries before paramedics reached him.

Suzie Dreja, former landlord of the Royal Oak in Southampton, said Mr Varian worked for her for more than three years from 2005, whilst he was studying at Southampton Solent University.

Mrs Dreja, who now runs a pub in Somerset, said: “He was a lovely guy. He was always courteous. After he left us he went to run his own pub in Cambridge and he went overseas for a bit.

“We were always so fond of him, he was great fun and very popular with all the staff and customers. I find this unbelievable.”

Mr Varian, who lived in Stone, near Aylesbury, leaves his parents, brother and sister.

Commander for Oxfordshire Chf Supt Brendan O’Dowda said: “The incident happened in a private area at the Oxfordshire Golf Club.

“Local officers from the neighbourhood team will be patrolling the area and available to talk to any residents who might feel concerned or worried.

“On behalf of the police I would like to offer my sympathies and condolences to the victim’s family at this difficult time.”

Limani, 33, who lived on the site of the golf club, was remanded in custody following an appearance at Oxford Magistrates Court yesterday.

He spoke only to confirm his name and was remanded in custody.

No application for bail was made.

He will appear at Oxford Crown Court today.

Benjamin Webb, spokesman for The Oxfordshire Golf Club, confirmed the golf course was open for business following limited access since Saturday afternoon.

He said: “Chris was a much admired and respected member of staff and friend.

“Our thoughts are with his family at this time.”