A teenager has pleaded not guilty to the murder of a popular train enthusiast from Skelmersdale .
Alex Davies' body was discovered in woodland on Parbold Hill, a beauty spot in countryside close to the town.
A 17-year-old from Chorley today appeared in court in connection with his death.
The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is charged with murder and possession of a knife.
He denied both allegations at Preston Crown Court.
Alex's disappearance sparked searches for the 18-year-old earlier this year.
His body was found by a dog walker on May 1, two days after he had last been seen.
A post mortem examination revealed he had been strangled and stabbed.
The death of the Home Bargains worker prompted touching tributes as friends and family mourned his death.
The defendant was remanded in custody and will return to court on January 24 for a pre-trial review.
A provisional trial date has been listed for March 9.
