Teenager denies murdering 12-year-old hit by car

A teenage boy has denied murdering a 12-year-old boy who died after being hit by a car.

Bobby Bloomfield was badly injured in Pilgrims Hatch, near Brentwood, Essex, on 7 June and died in hospital a few hours later.

The 15-year-old defendant, who was allegedly driving the car, entered a not guilty plea during an appearance at Basildon Crown Court earlier.

The second defendant, William Lunnon, 43, of Ashwells Road, Pilgrims Hatch, applied to have the case against him dismissed, with a hearing due to take place on 6 October.

Lunnon and the teenager, who cannot be named because of his age, are due to go on trial in November.

Judge Cohen said a High Court judge would hear the trial, which is set to last for six weeks.

The family of Bobby, a Year 8 pupil at Shenfield High School, previously said he "brought light and life into all our lives".

In a statement, his school added: "Bobby was a student who brought so much fun and happiness to those around him.

"He was charismatic, full of energy and had a great sense of humour."

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