A TEENAGER has denied murdering a former Coggeshall secondary school pupil in Chelmsford.

Elijah Clark, 18, is accused of murdering Andy Wood, 16, who died from a stab wound to his neck on February 12.

The police found Andy fatally injured in green space off Waterson Vale, a residential street in Chelmsford, at about 11.30pm.

Paramedics rushed Andy, whose home address was in Braintree, to Broomfield Hospital where he tragically died.

Echo: Popular - Andy Wood, 16, died from a stab wound to his neckPopular - Andy Wood, 16, died from a stab wound to his neck (Image: Family handout)

An inquest into Andy’s death was opened and adjourned at Essex Coroner’s Court in late February and found he died after being stabbed in the neck.

Clark, of Gloucester Avenue, Chelmsford, denied murdering the former Honywood School pupil, in Coggeshall, this morning (Monday).

Appearing before Chelmsford Crown Court, he also denied possessing a knife in Waterson Vale on February 12 and assault causing actual bodily harm.

The assault allegation relates to someone who was with Andy, an earlier hearing was told.

Echo: Investigation - a forensics officer probes the green space off Waterson ValeInvestigation - a forensics officer probes the green space off Waterson Vale (Image: PA)

Echo: Crime scene - police officers at the scene in ChelmsfordCrime scene - police officers at the scene in Chelmsford (Image: PA)

A provisional trial date previously fixed for September 11 is unlikely to remain due to the defendant changing his legal aid.

When it takes place, the trial is expected to last between seven and ten days.

Remanding Clark in custody, Judge Christopher Morgan said: “I am sorry we can’t provide you with any certain future dates for the next stage of this trial but you will be informed in due course.”

In a tribute released through Essex Police, Andy’s family said: “Andy was a kind and loving young man. He touched the lives of countless people.

Echo: Touching - floral tributes were left at the sceneTouching - floral tributes were left at the scene (Image: PA)

“His loss has left a massive hole in the lives of his family and friends.”

The police urged people to allow the family to “grieve in peace”.

A statement published by Honywood School said: “As a community we are shocked by the news. Andy was a beacon of positivity who radiated kindness.

“He was a happy and fun loving young man who left his mark with so many of us.”