The trial of the teenager accused of murdering Ammanford hairdresser Kelly Hyde began in Swansea Crown Court at noon today.

The Judge Mr Justice Nigel Davies heard an hour of legal submissions from defence barrister Huw Davies and crown prosecutor Patrick Harrington before adjourning the case until 2pm when a jury will be sworn in.

It was decided that the jury would visit Mill Terrace - near where Kelly's battered body was found on September 30 - on Thursday to gain a better understanding of the events leading up to her death.

No decision was taken on whether the accused would accompany the jury to the murder scene.

Judge Davies approved an application from the defence that he and both legal representatives should appear in court for the duration of the trial without traditional wigs and robes due to the age of the defendant, who recently turned 17.

The defendant, who due to his age cannot be named for legal reasons, appeared in the dock looking calm and wearing a white tee-shirt. He spoke only to confirm his name.

Judge Davies ordered that the trial - which is expected to last between four and five weeks - would sit between the hours of 10.15am and 3.15pm each day.

He reached the decision based on the defendant's four-hour travelling time each day from Ashfield, in Gloucestershire, where he is being held on remand for the duration of the trial.

Judge Davies queried whether it would be possible to accommodate the teen closer to the court, but was told that both Parc Prison in Bridgend and Neath's Hillside Youth Offending Unit - the only suitable facilities in south Wales - were unable to assist.

It was also agreed that the court would not sit next Monday, June 30, as Judge Davies had prior commitments at Cardiff Crown Court.

Mr Harrington said he expected to give the prosecution's opening address to the jury tomorrow. The case reconvenes at 2pm when a 12-man jury will be chosen and sworn in.