THE two men charged with murdering Greenock dad Stephen McGowan chased him through several streets and repeatedly stabbed him, it is alleged by prosecutors.

Accused Connor Grana, 18, and Graeme Carter, 26, have both been remanded in custody following separate brief appearances in private at the town’s sheriff court.

Grana, of Shankland Road, entered the dock last Friday and Carter, of Clynder Road — who was arrested over the weekend — appeared before Sheriff Derek Hamilton yesterday afternoon.

Both are charged with pursuing, assaulting and repeatedly stabbing Mr McGowan on his body and murdering him. The charge states the offence took place in Lynedoch Street, Regent Street, Well Park, Cathcart Street, Dalrymple Street, High Street and Tobago Street on 27 July.

Carter — represented by defence lawyer Aamer Anwar — made no plea or declaration during his appearance at Greenock Sheriff Court.

Dad-of-two Mr McGowan, 23, was found seriously injured within a close on Tobago Street in the early hours of 27 July and died shortly afterwards.

The case against Grana and Carter has been continued for further examination and is expected to call again this month.