Man in court over murder of Newtown teenager

A 20-year-old man today appeared in court charged with the murder of a Mid Wales teenager.

Blaine Daniel Kirkham, of Newtown, was charged last night over the death of 18-year-old Lewis Clarke, following an incident at a flat in Llanidloes on Saturday.

Kirkham, who also faces a charge relating to a drug offence, did not enter any pleas during the five-minute hearing before magistrates in Llandrindod Wells this morning.

He spoke only to confirm his name and age and was remanded in custody to appear before Mold Crown Court on Friday.

Mr Clarke, of Newtown, died at the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital after being airlifted there following an incident at a flat in Plynlimon House, Long Bridge Street, Llanidloes, on Saturday.

Mr Clarke's family has paid tribute to the teenager and said they are "heartbroken and devastated".

In a statement released at a press conference in Newtown yesterday by Detective Chief Inspector Shane Williams, who is leading the investigation, his parents Gale Morris and Sean Clarke paid tribute to their son.

A statement from Ms Morris and her family said: "We as a family are devastated by the loss of Lewis. He was a well-loved boy with a passion for music and acting.

"He was looking forward to joining the Navy in November. His determination in life was amazing."

A second statement from Sean Clarke and his family said: "We as a family are absolutely heartbroken and devastated at the loss of our Lewis.

"We are obviously very shocked and sickened and struggling to come to terms with his death. He was much-loved by many people, and we were all very proud of him."

Mr Williams also read an extract from Lewis's Facebook page, which the teenager had written about himself.

He said: "Nothing makes me happier than listening to a song with real meaning. I also discovered I have a passion for acting."

Mr Williams also re-appealed for anybody who has any information to contact officers at Newtown Police Station.

By Anwen Evans