A BOY accused of murdering a Southampton teenager has appeared in court today (Wednesday).

The 15-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared at Southampton Magistrates' Court this morning facing an allegation of murder and 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.

During today's hearing, the teenager, from Andover, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and nationality.

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

The boy, who was not required to enter a plea at this stage, was remanded in custody to appear at Winchester Crown Court tomorrow.