PICTURED: Uncle appears in court over niece Jasmine Forrester's murder

Heartbroken family and friends of an 11-year-old girl who was stabbed to death wept in court as her uncle appeared in the dock charged with her murder.

Delroy Forrester, aged 51, is accused of stabbing his niece Jasmine to death in Wolverhampton.

Unemployed Forrester, of Lower Villiers Street, Blakenhall, appeared in front of Walsall magistrates for a brief hearing.

Relatives of the schoolgirl were seen weeping in a packed public gallery when Forrester entered.

Wearing a dark blue jumper, Forrester was led into the dock in handcuffs and spoke only to confirm his name and address.

The case has now been sent to crown court.

Relatives rushed from the courtroom as Forrester was taken away, with some having to be held up by others in grief.

Jasmine was found with serious injuries at a home in Kent Road on Friday and taken to hospital in a critical condition, but could not be saved.

Her father Simeon Forrester has paid tribute to his daughter, saying: “This is a hugely tragic time for our family and the loss we feel is unexplainable. We are utterly devastated. Jasmine was a shining star and a huge part of us.”

Det Insp Ian Wilkins from the West Midlands Police Homicide Team, who is leading the investigation, said: “We are continuing to support Jasmine’s family at this truly tragic time.”

“The family have asked for privacy and we really hope everyone can respect that wish.

“We are not seeking anyone else in relation to this incident, but if anyone has information please get in contact with us.”

Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting crime reference 20WV/32155Q/18

Forrester will next appear at Wolverhampton Crown Court on Wednesday.