A 16-year-old boy has been remanded in custody charged with the murder of Harry Pitman.

Harry Pitman, who was also 16, had joined friends to watch fireworks from Primrose Hill on New Year's Eve, but was stabbed to death when violence erupted at around 11.40pm.

The defendant, who is from Westminster and cannot be named because of his age, spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address, and to tell his visibly emotional parents that he loved them as he was escorted into custody, PA reported.

He is also charged with possessing an offensive weapon.

Addressing the defendant’s parents, who leaned towards their son behind a glass screen, District Judge Denis Brennan closed the hearing at Highbury Magistrates’ Court by saying: “I also appreciate the control you showed whilst in the court. Please, with dignity, can you leave the courtroom.”

The defendant is next due to appear at the Old Bailey on Tuesday (January 9).

A 17-year-old male who was arrested on Thursday has been released on bail, and three other boys originally arrested in connection with the incident will have no further action taken against them.