A couple accused of killing a French nanny face fresh charges of attempting to hide the crime by burning the body, a court heard.

The charred remains of Sophie Lionnet, 21, were discovered in the garden at a house in Southfields, on September 20.

At first police were unable to identify the body but later confirmed it was that of Ms Lionnet, who was originally from Troyes in north-east France.

Designer Sabrina Kouider, 34, and her partner Ouissem Medouni, 40, of Wimbledon Park Road, Wandsworth, are charged with her murder on or before September 20.

They now also face a second charge of perverting the course of justice by attempting to "dispose of the body of Sophie Lionnet by burning".

Kouider appeared at the Old Bailey via video link from custody before Judge Nicholas Hilliard QC.

Wearing a grey tracksuit with a dark grey sweater tied around her shoulders, she spoke to confirm her identity from Bronzefield prison.

She was helped to follow the hearing by a French interpreter but was not asked to enter any pleas to the charges she faces.

Her partner, who is also in custody, was not produced in court.

The defendants face a four-week trial starting on March 19 next year.

Judge Hilliard ordered a further plea hearing to be set in the New Year.