BBC Crime Correspondent Stephen Cape reports from Great Yarmouth Magistrates' Court

Kevan Roberts, 51, of Eccles, Norfolk, was remanded in custody until 29 December by magistrates at Great Yarmouth.

During a short hearing Mr Roberts spoke only to confirm his name and address.

Thomas' body was found in a picnic area near Thetford, Norfolk, 16 months ago. He had been strangled.

The area where Thomas was found

He had last been seen when he left his home in Happisburgh, Norfolk, on his bike the previous evening.

Thomas, an avid CB radio enthusiast who broadcast under the name of Jackpot, disappeared after telling his parents he was going to cycle to see a friend who lived two miles away.

The murder inquiry was the biggest yet mounted by Norfolk Police.

Some 50 police officers joined the hunt and took about 4,500 statements.