TRIBUTES have been paid to the Dorset-based distant cousin of actors Ralph and Joseph Fiennes after he was stabbed in an alleged altercation in a London restaurant.

James Fiennes, 49, who lived in Sherborne, is also related to adventurer Sir Ranulph Fiennes and was attacked while eating at the Tapestry bar and restaurant in Mortlake on Tuesday.

He became involved in a dispute with another man, who then stabbed him with a pair of scissors.

The IT consultant and businessman died in hospital.

He launched the Dorset Soap Cellar and spent much of his working week in London.

A 36-year-old man was arrested at the scene and later charged with murder.