A HERO landlord was knifed to death at his own pub the night before an anniversary trip with his wife - who has since said "my heart is broken".

       Matthew Bryant tragically died after emergency services found him with stab wounds outside the Hare and Hounds, in Maidstone, Kent, on Monday night.

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       Matthew Bryant's wife Caroline has said her heart is broken following his death Credit: Matthew Lee Bryant - facebook 5

       Matthew sadly died outside his pub on Monday after being stabbed 5

       The tragedy happened on Monday night Credit: UKNIP

       Paramedics administered medical treatment around 6pm but he was sadly pronounced dead shortly after.

       A woman in her 50s, who was known to him, was arrested at the scene on Lower Boxley Road on suspicion of murder.

       The tragedy comes after the landlord, who took over the pub in 2015, was recently hailed a hero after helping to save a punter's life.

       Last year, Matthew rushed to give first aid to a man after a single punch knocked him to the ground and saw his head smash off the concrete.

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       And it's understood the "absolute gent" was due to head off on a romantic getaway with wife Caroline Bryant on Tuesday as they looked forward to celebrating their anniversary.

       Caroline has since said: "My heart is broken," as tributes pour in for her late husband.

       Heartfelt condolences described the couple as the "best landlords".

       Becky Whitehead said: “R.I.P Matt. Love and thoughts to the family and friends. I’m so sorry for your loss.”

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       Daniel Hoggart wrote: “Absolute gent you always will be Matt.

       "I just don’t want to believe this.”

       Mark Osborne added: "All my thoughts go out to all his family and friends heaven has got a true angel. R.I.P Matt.”

       A cordon remains in place today as cops carry out enquiries into the horror.

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       Tributes were today paid to the landlord Credit: Matthew Lee Bryant - facebook 5

       A cordon remained in place on Tuesday Credit: UKNIP