Chris Isted died from a stab wound to the heart following a fight in the entrance to the Ship pub in Croydon, an inquest heard.

The 25-year-old was fatally stabbed at about 2am on Saturday morning after drinking in the pub with his friend, Kevin Millward.

Giving evidence at Mr Isted’s inquest, which was opened at Croydon Coroner’s Court today, Detective Chief Inspector Nick Scola said Mr Isted likely knew his attacker, but it was unclear how well.

He revealed both parties had been drinking in the pub before a fight broke out in the doorway.

He said: "There was a disturbance between two men who had been drinking in the pub and as a result Mr Isted suffered fatal stab injuries."

Police and ambulance were called to the scene but despite efforts to resuscitate him, Mr Isted was pronounced dead at the scene.

An autopsy revealed he had died from a stab wound to the heart.

The inquest has been adjourned.

* A 30-year-old man arrested in connection with the murder has since been bailed.