Boy, 13, denies murdering foster carer Dawn McKenzie

A 13-year-old boy has appeared in court accused of murdering a foster carer at a house in South Lanarkshire.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is charged with killing former nursery worker Dawn McKenzie in Hamilton in June 2011.

He is alleged to have attacked the 34-year-old by striking her on the head and body with a knife.

The boy, who denies the accusations, appeared for a further preliminary hearing at the High Court in Glasgow.

His counsel, Louise Arrol, said defence inquiries were continuing and asked for a another preliminary hearing to be set.

Judge Lady Stacey adjourned the case until next month.