Tia sharp
Tia Sharp's body was found in the loft of her grandmother's house (handout)

Stuart Hazell, the man accused of murdering 12-year-old Tia Sharp, has been remanded in custody after a brief court appearance at the Old Bailey.

Hazell, 37, appeared via videolink from Belmarsh Prison for the opening of his hearing by judge Mr Justice Saunders and his defence QC said that there would be no application for bail.

Julain Evans, for the prosecution, explained to the court that Hazell was accused of the murder of the 12-year-old, who was found in the loft of the house he shares with her granmorther, Christine Sharp.

The body is understood to have been wrapped in sheets and black bags and was found when the police searched the home in New Addington, near Croydon, for the fourth time.

Tia was reported missing on August 3 and police embarked on a week-long search before her body was found, leading to Hazell's arrest on August 10.

No cause of death has been confirmed, while a post mortem is ongoing. Hazell's trial will continue on November 19.