James Yates, 20, is also accused of burning the clothes worn by the 17-year-old alleged killer.

Yates, of Dodman Road, Croxteth, Liverpool, spoke only to confirm his name and address at Liverpool Magistrates' Court before District Judge Richard Clancy remanded him in custody until next Friday.

At the back of court, Rhys's parents, Stephen, 45, and Melanie, 42, sat only feet away from the defendant's parents.