TRIBUTES have been paid to a fun-loving postwoman who was stabbed to death in Peebles.

Alex Stuart, who was 22, had been at a party when police were called to a house in the Cuddyside area of the town at around 11.20am on Sunday.

She was rushed to Edinburgh Royal Infirmary to be treated for her injuries but passed away during the course of the afternoon.

Twenty six-year-old Nicholas Rogers appeared in private at Jedburgh Sheriff Court charged with her murder.

Rogers from Innerleithen, is also accused of assault and police assault.

He made no plea and the case was continued for further examination.

Rogers  was remanded in custody by Sheriff Peter Paterson.

He is expected to appear in court again next week.

Alex was well known in her home town of Peebles through her job with the Royal Mail and socialising as well as playing for the local netball team.

Her Facebook page was filled yesterday with messages of sympathy.

Alexandra McGregor wrote:"The world is a cruel place.  Sleep tight."

Michael Jewitt said:"As a genuine and buzzing lassie, you'll be sorely missed."

Lauren Quinn commented:"Such tragic news. Can't believe something this horrible can happen in our wee town."

Chloe Muir said:"Peebles won't be the same without you. Laughing, smiling and always having a party. Party hard up there.

"Everyone will miss you."

Detective Inspector Stevie Bertram of Police Scotland said: "Our thoughts very much remain with Alex's loved ones, who have respectfully requested privacy at this incredibly difficult time.

"We're not currently looking for anyone else in connection with Alex's death. 

"However, our enquiries continue and we'd urge anyone who may have information relevant to this investigation to get in touch."

Anyone with information can contact Galashiels CID via 101, quoting incident number 1871 of 6 August, or report this anonymously to Crimestoppers.