Ananova:

The man accused of kidnapping and murdering Sarah Payne has been remanded in custody as he appeared in court.

Roy William Whiting, 42, was remanded until May 18 by Judge Richard Brown when he appeared at Lewes Crown Court.

Sarah's parents, Sara and Michael Payne, were in court, sitting just feet from Whiting, who appeared in the dock wearing black jeans and a grey T-shirt.

Mrs Payne stared at Whiting throughout the 10-minute hearing.

It was the first time Sarah's parents have faced the man accused of killing their daughter in court.

More than 20 reporters were in court - the jury box was used to seat many of them.

Whiting, formerly of St Augustine Road, Littlehampton, who spoke only to confirm his name, smiled through much of the hearing and yawned as Judge Brown remanded him in custody.

Outside the court more than a dozen police officers were on hand as cameramen waited for Sarah's parents and her grandparents, Terry and Lesley Payne, as they left the court without saying anything.