A TEENAGER awaiting trial charged with murdering his mother can be named for the first time.

Reporting restrictions have been lifted at Winchester Crown Court after Rowan Thompson, who is accused of the murder of 50-year-old Joanna Thompson, turned 18 earlier this month.

Mrs Thompson was found dead at a property in the village of Hambledon in July last year.

A post-mortem examination showed she died as a result of neck injuries, according to Hampshire Police.

During a remote hearing, Judge Susan Evans QC adjourned the case against Thompson for a further hearing on August 21 with a trial planned for October 2.

The defendant, who has been detained under the Mental Health Act, did not attend the short hearing.