Man charged with murder after body of Louise Smith, 16, found in woodland

A man has been charged with murdering 16-year-old Louise Smith, whose body was found in woodland after she disappeared in Hampshire.

Shane Lee Mays, 29, of Somborne Drive, Havant, will appear at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court on Friday morning to face the charge.

A 29-year-old woman who was arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been released on bail.

The teenager, who had been missing since VE Day, was found in woodland in Havant on May 21.

In an update on Saturday, officers said formal identification procedures had been completed with Louise’s family being informed and supported by specialist officers.

On Sunday, Hampshire Police launched a murder investigation in connection with Louise's death.

The 16-year-old was described by a family friend as a "lovely girl with a heart of gold".