Murder charge stepfather in court

Jamie was a pupil at Ysgol Gyfun y Strade

A boy stabbed to death in an alleged attack by his stepfather had 18 wounds to his upper body, a court has heard.

Karl Wayne Bowen, 42, of Llanelli, appeared before magistrates in the town accused of murdering aspiring jockey Jamie Yeates, 15, at their home.

Mr Bowen has also been charged with the attempted murder of Jamie's sister Kimberly, 18, during the early hours of Thursday.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Swansea Crown Court on 20 January.

Mr Bowen has further been charged with grievous bodily harm to his stepdaughter and grievous bodily harm with intent.

Peter Lloyd, prosecuting, told the court Jamie "died as a result of 18 stabs to his upper body".

His sister Kimberly, 18, suffered stab wounds to her arm in the alleged knife attack.

It was the first time Mr Bowen had appeared in court since his arrest on Thursday. He was charged on Saturday evening.

He spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

Kimberly has now been released from hospital, said Dyfed-Powys Police.

Police said they were continuing inquiries and have appealed for information.

Officers said they wanted to thank the public for their assistance.

Police outside Grant Street in Llanelli on Thursday

Meanwhile, former champion jockey Jamie Spencer dedicated his win on Dishdasha at the Great Leighs meeting on Sunday to Jamie, who had been due to lead out the horse for the race.

The teenager had worked for trainer Alison Thorpe in Carmarthenshire and was due to take up an apprenticeship after his GCSEs.

Mr Spencer said: "He was a young lad, just starting out in life. I'm just pleased to have won. It's very little, but at least it's something."

Owner Gwyn Williams added: "Jamie was the boy's idol and he was going to lead the horse up today. This win brings a little happiness back."

Anyone with information can call police on 0845 330 2000 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.