An 18-year-old man has appeared in court accused of murdering a teenager who was attacked with a martial arts weapon at a fancy dress party.

Fifteen-year-old Ricky Butler, of Leith View Road, Roffey, near Horsham, was allegedly beaten with nunchucks at the party in Gorringes Brook, Horsham, on October 27.

The schoolboy, the youngest of four brothers, died later in hospital.

Unemployed Richard Martin, of Heath Way, Horsham, appeared at Lewes Crown Court accused of murder and assaulting a 16-year-old boy causing him actual bodily harm.

During the brief hearing at Lewes Crown Court Martin did not enter a plea to the charges.

He was remanded in custody until February next year.