Boy, 16, in court over murder of shop worker

A 16-year-old boy has appeared in court charged with the murder of a shop assistant.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested on Monday following the death of Vijay Patel, 49, in Mill Hill, north London.

He appeared at Willesden Magistrates' Court on Wednesday and spoke only to confirm his identity and address.

He is due to next appear at the Old Bailey on January 12.

Police were called to the incident at the Rota Express convenience store in The Broadway, Mill Hill, at around 11.45pm on Saturday and father-of-two Mr Patel died the following day.

It is thought he was attacked after an argument over cigarette papers.

Detectives are continuing to appeal for information from potential witnesses, with three people believed to have been involved.