AN 18-year-old from Ollerton could face trial next April charged with the murder of teenager Alex Rodda.

The body of 15-year-old Alex was found outside in Ashley Mill Lane, in the village of Ashley, shortly before 8am on Friday.

Alex, who lived near Knutsford, was a year 11 pupil at Holmes Chapel Comprehensive School.

Matthew Mason, of Ash Lane, Ollerton, near Knutsford, appeared at Chester Crown Court via video link from HMP Altcourse today (Wednesday).

He is charged with murdering Alex on Thursday, December 12 and possession of a bladed article in a public place in Newport, Shropshire, on December 13.

The defendant's parents sat in court for the short hearing, while relatives of the victim sat on the other side of the public gallery.

Judge Steven Everett commended the two families for ‘sitting so quietly’ in court.

He said: "It is undoubtedly hugely emotive."

Mason, wearing a grey jumper, spoke to give his name, date of birth and nationality as English.

No application for bail was made and no pleas were entered.

Mason was remanded in custody ahead of a plea hearing on February 21.