A 15-YEAR-old Andover boy accused of murdering a Southampton teenager has appeared in crown court today (Thursday).

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Winchester Crown Court this morning facing an allegation of murder and another of being in possession of a bladed article.

It comes following the death of 17-year-old James Laurie.

James died from a single stab wound to the chest in the morning of Sunday, January 19, following an incident on Lyndsay Road in Thornhill, Southampton.

The 15-year-old defendant appeared before Judge Keith Cutler and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and nationality.

No plea was entered during the hearing, but he is expected to brought back to the same court on March 25 to enter his plea.

However, talks have begun into a potential trial date beginning on May 4 which is likely to last two to three weeks.

Judge Cutler remanded the boy back into custody.

Following James’ death the family have paid tribute to him.

In a statement, issued through Hampshire Constabulary, the family said: "We will miss you and your cheeky smile forever.

"You were full of life. We will always think of you. Sleep tight now."

Friends of James also paid tribute to James, who has been described as an “outgoing and funny” friend, who loved his music and rapping.

“He loved his rapping, we were only about 12-years-old when he got me into rapping and I’ve never stopped since then.

“We had a lot of memories when we were younger he was a proper good spirit to be around."

The court has ordered a ban on the publication of the boy's name, due to him being under the age of 18.