Trial set for Louise Smith murder accused Shane Mays from Leigh Park as he appears at Winchester Crown Court

Mays, 29, of Somborne Drive, Leigh Park, had a provisional date for his trial at Winchester Crown Court set down for November 10 when he appeared in court yesterday.

Mays, who has not entered a plea yet, remains remanded in custody. He will also attend a pre-trial hearing on July 15.

He appeared in the dock dressed in a black T-shirt at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court last week charged with Louise’s murder on May 8.

As reported, Louise went missing on VE Day, May 8, and had last been seen in Leigh Park at around midday.

Her body was found at Havant Thicket on May 21 and police said she was formally identified two days later.

Police carried out searches at Havant Thicket for several days before finding the girl’s body.

A 29-year-old woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender was released on bail.

As reported, Louise’s family have paid tribute to the teenager.

In a police-issued statement, the family said: ‘Louise was a typical 16yr old girl, who enjoyed spending time with her friends.

‘She loved animals and being outdoors.

‘She will be remembered as a smiley, generous person who loved her family and was loved by all.’

They added: ‘Louise had beautiful blue eyes, a cheeky smile and was known for her kindness to others. She loved animals and had a sarcastic sense of humour.’

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