The councillor responsible for crime and community safety in Harrow has paid tribute to a shopkeeper who was stabbed to death while opening up at the weekend.

Cllr Krishna Suresh said Ravi Katharkamar’s murder was a “tragedy”, as he offered his “thoughts and prayers” to his friends and family members.

Mr Katharkamar died from a stab wound to the chest at his newsagents, Marsh Food and Wine, in Marsh Road, Pinner at around 6am on Sunday (March 24).

Cllr Suresh described him as a “down to earth, family-orientated man” who would always want to do his best for others.

He explained how he and his wife would regularly visit Mr Katharkamar’s shop to get change for a nearby launderette and that he was “devastated” to hear the news of his killing.

The Metropolitan Police has launched a murder investigation. No arrests have been made.

Officers remain in the area and are available should residents have concerns or information they wish to pass on.

The incident comes days after the Government announced it would devote an extra £100 million to help tackle knife crime in England and Wales.

This was supported by many local authorities, though it was viewed by some as insufficient given the funding cuts in recent years.

Cllr Graham Henson, leader of Harrow Council, said: “While I welcome the news that the government is finally taking action to tackle knife crime, in London alone police funding has been reduced by £1 billion since 2010.

“In this context, the £100 million pledged by the chancellor for police forces across the country will still leave the police significantly under-resourced.”

Cllr Suresh added that he too is “frustrated” by the lack of resources given to police in the borough but said the council is “doing all it can” to help keep residents safe.