A LEIGH teenager was appearing in court on Monday accused of murdering a 10-year-old girl

Lauren Pilkington Smith's body was found on July 8, this year in dense undergrowth just 200 yards from her home in Twist Lane. She had been reported missing just four hours earlier.

Kieron Smith, aged 18, of Pilling Street, who is not related to Lauren, is alleged to have killed the youngster, who died from multiple blows to the head.

Smith will appear at Liverpool Crown Court where he is expected to enter his plea.