A MAN charged with the alleged murder of a 20-year-old in Bournemouth has appeared in court.

Jamie Frank Higgs, 18, appeared at Poole Magistrates' Court for a preliminary hearing on Wednesday morning.

Prosecutors allege he murdered Kai Joshua Archer, from Bournemouth, late on Saturday.

As reported, it is claimed Mr Archer sustained stab wounds to his chest.

Police said they were called by the ambulance service to St Swithun's Road at 10.10pm and Mr Archer was taken to hospital where he died a short time later.

Higgs, who police claim knew Mr Archer, has not yet entered a plea to the charge against him. This morning, he appeared at court flanked by a dock officer to confirm his name, age, address and nationality. The defendant, who lives in Windsor Road, Boscombe, was handcuffed before leaving the dock.

Jason Spellman, prosecuting, said due to the seriousness of the allegation, the case could only be dealt with in crown court.

Higgs, who has blonde hair and wore a grey sweatshirt for the hearing, was remanded into custody. He will next appear for a plea and trial preparation hearing at Winchester Crown Court on Friday.

In a statement before the hearing, Detective Chief Inspector Rich Dixey, of MCIT, said: “Family liaison officers have updated Kai’s family with this development and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“This remains an ongoing investigation and it is important to stress – as is usual in such circumstances – that it would be entirely inappropriate for Dorset Police to comment further ahead of the court proceedings. It is vital that the justice system is allowed to follow its course.

“We would also urge members of the public to exercise caution when making any comments on social media and online to avoid the potential for prejudicing the impending proceedings.”

A 17-year-old Bournemouth boy was arrested on suspicion of affray on Monday in connection with the incident. He has since been released under investigation while enquiries continue.