AN inquest has heard how 14-year old Lilly Jones preliminary cause of death was multiple stab wounds to the neck and chest.

On June 20 the teenager was was reported missing from her home in Blaina before she was discovered in Duffryn Park woodlands two days later. Her body was formally identified last week.

A 14-year-old boy appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Monday June 29 charged with her murder.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is expected to stand trial in November and will remain in police custody until then.

The short inquest heard that emergency services attended the woodlands but Lilly was later pronounced dead.

Senior Gwent Coroner Caroline Saunders explained it was appropriate to hold an inquest due to the traumatic nature of the teenager’s death. However, due to the ongoing police investigation it would be adjourned to a later date.

Ms Saunders said, "As a result of that information and given Lilly Jones has died a traumatic death it falls to be investigated under the terms of an inquest and I formally open an inquest. The matter will be adjourned so further enquiries can be made.

"The inquest is paused due to an ongoing police and criminal investigation. Once that investigation has concluded it will return to the coroners' service to determine whether an inquest needs to be resumed."

Anyone with CCTV footage or information that could assist the criminal investigation can speak to police officers in person, or contact Gwent Police online.

Call 101, quoting log reference 2600194414, or send a direct message on Facebook or X, or online: https://www.gwent.police.uk/contact/af/contact-us-beta/contact-us/

Alternatively, call Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111 with information or visit www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

A provisional inquest date was given as April 6, 2027.