Boy in court over school stabbing

The schoolboy, with a jacket over his head, is led into the court

A 13-year-old schoolboy has appeared in court in Ballymena charged with grievous bodily harm with intent.

The charges are connected to the stabbing of another 13-year-old at Ballymoney High School on Thursday. He was discharged from hospital on Friday.

The accused, who cannot be named, appeared in court with his mother at his side.

A police officer said when she put the charge to the accused he replied "no". The teenager was released on bail.

The officer also said he had expressed "genuine remorse and concern" for the injured party and denied intending to cause injury.

As part of the bail conditions the boy is not allowed to return to Ballymoney High School. A police inspector said the educational authorities were aware of the situation.

The accused was also ordered to be kept under 24 hour adult supervision with a curfew at his home address.

He is also banned from making any contact with the alleged injury party, any prosecution witnesses and from entering Coleraine except to see his solicitor or attend court.

The schoolboy will appear again at Youth Court in Coleraine on 10 May.