Harry Pitman: Trial date set for youth accused of murder

Harry Pitman was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill when he was stabbed

A 16-year-old boy charged with the murder of Harry Pitman on New Year's Eve is set to stand trial in September.

Harry, who was also 16 and from Haringey, was fatally stabbed on Primrose Hill in north London as crowds gathered to watch fireworks.

The defendant, who cannot be named, did not enter a plea at the Old Bailey for the murder charge or a separate one of having an offensive weapon in public.

A provisional trial was set for 2 September.

The defendant spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth during the hearing, which lasted about half an hour.

Judge Sarah Whitehouse KC remanded him into youth detention accommodation. He will next appear at the same court for a plea hearing on 26 March.

Harry was with a group of friends near the viewing platform on Primrose Hill when he was stabbed at about 23:40 GMT, the Metropolitan Police previously said.

A 17-year-old boy arrested on Thursday has been released on bail.

No further action will be taken against three other boys arrested in connection with the case.

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