A MAN has appeared in court accused of murdering 29-year-old Millie Mkwananzi.

Steven Smith, 24, of Gwynne Road, Branksome spoke only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

He is charged with murdering Mildred Mkwananzi, known as Millie, in Gordon Road, Boscombe during the evening of Saturday March 27.

He also faces a charge of causing damage by fire to her flat in Gordon Road.

The case was adjourned for a preliminary hearing at Winchester Crown Court on April 11.

Smith was remanded in custody.