Two men are to stand trial later this year accused of the murder of a teenager who was missing for more than six weeks before the discovery of his body.

Ben Cook, 19, and 20-year-old Louis Michael Hackett, are accused of killing Kieran Williams, who was reported missing from his home, in Esplanade West, in Ashbrooke, Sunderland, on Monday April 18.

Following extensive searches by police, the body of the 18-year-old was found near to the new Northern Spire Bridge, in the Pallion area of the city, on June 2.

Read more: Kieran Williams: Sunderland crime scene remains as two appear in court

Following confirmation of her son’s death, Mr Williams’ “heartbroken and crushed” mother, Tracey, described him as, "such a happy-go-lucky lad who loved life.”

Mr Cook, of Fordfield Road, and Mr Hackett, of Fordenbridge Square, both of Ford Estate. Sunderland, pleaded not guilty to a charge of murder when they appeared at Newcastle Crown Court via video link from prison today (Tuesday, July 5).

They were both remanded to remain in custody pending their trial, which could last up to ten days, due to start at the court on Monday October 31.

The Recorder of Newcastle, Judge Paul Sloan, adjourned the case, pending a further case management hearing, on August 26.

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