Two 15-year-olds accused of the murder of Brianna Ghey appeared in Liverpool Crown Court for the first time.
The boy from Leigh and girl from Warrington appeared via two separate video links in court today, February 16, after being charged with the murder of the 16-year-old Birchwood High School pupil, who was found fatally stabbed on a path in Culcheth Linear Park at 3.13pm on Saturday.
Both accompanied by an adult, they spoke only to confirm their names and dates of birth at the short hearing.
READ MORE: Schoolchildren in court over 'brutal' murder of Brianna Ghey
A trial date for July 10, with an estimated length of three weeks, was set by Judge David Aubrey KC. He remanded both teenagers - who cannot be named for legal reasons - into youth detention ahead of a plea and trial preparation hearing on May 2.
Vigils have been held across the country for Brianna, a transgender girl. Hundreds of people gathered near St George's Hall in Liverpool city centre on Tuesday night, where candles were lit in memory of the "one of a kind" teenager.
In a tribute, her family said: "Brianna was a much loved daughter, granddaughter, and baby sister.
"She was a larger than life character who would leave a lasting impression on all that met her. Brianna was beautiful, witty and hilarious. Brianna was strong, fearless and one of a kind.
"The loss of her young life has left a massive hole in our family, and we know that the teachers and her friends who were involved in her life will feel the same. We would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support during this extremely difficult time.
"We would like to thank the police for their support, and witnesses for helping with the investigation. The continuation of respect for privacy is greatly appreciated."
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