Man appears in court charged with the murder of Lucy McHugh

A 24-year-old man has appeared in court charged with the murder and rape of Southampton schoolgirl, Lucy McHugh.

The 13-year-old was last seen walking along Coxford Road past a Tesco Express shop at 9.30 on the morning of July 25th.

Her body was discovered by a member of the public the following day in woodland at Southampton Sports Centre. She's been stabbed to death.

Stephen-Alan Nicholson, of no fixed address, has been charged with murder, rape of a child under 13 and one count of sexual activity with a child in relation to Lucy.

He also faces a second count of sexual activity with a child which dates back to 2012.

This charge involves a 14-year-old girl and is alleged to have taken place at Southampton Sports Centre.

The defendant, who worked as a tattoo artist, appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court.

Mr Nicolson was wearing a grey sweatshirt with tattoos visible on his neck and face and only spoke to confirm his name, date of birth and nationality during the brief hearing.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Winchester Crown Court on November 19.