A MAN appeared before Medway magistrates at Chatham today charged with the murder of 14-year-old schoolgirl Hannah Williams whose body was discovered at Northfleet in March.

Robert Howard, 58, of Lyon Close, Eltham, is accused of killing 14-year-old Hannah between April 20, 2001 and March 16, 2002.

Hannah, from Deptford, south-east London, was last seen at her home on April 21 last year before going on a shopping trip. Her body was found buried at the Blue Circle cement works in Northfleet on March 15.

Mr Howard, who is unemployed, was committed to stand trial at crown court at a date to be fixed. He was remanded in custody.