The father of a terminally ill boy appeared in court today charged with his murder.

Former soldier Andrew Wragg, 36, was remanded in custody after he appeared before magistrates at Chichester.

Wearing a white polo shirt Wragg, of Henty Close, Worthing, spoke twice to confirm his address and that he understood the charge of murder.

Wragg, who is accused of killing his son Jacob, ten, at the family home on Saturday, sat passively as Angela McGuinness outlined the case for the prosecution.

Wragg's brother Chris and sister Tina were also in court as magistrates heard Miss McGuinness describe the case as "tragic".

His wife Mary, 40, arrested with her husband on suspicion of murder but released late last night without charge, was not in court.

Jacob had Hunter syndrome, an incurable genetic disorder that affects mental and physical development and was not expected to live beyond his teens.

An ambulance crew and police arrived at the family home just before midnight on Saturday after receiving a 999 call from the house.

After being treated by paramedics, Jacob was taken to Worthing Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

More tributes were today paid to Jacob, who attended Highdown special needs school in Durrington Lane, Worthing.

Headteacher Graham Elliker said: "This is tragic and very sad.

"Jacob used to smile when he recognised people he knew.

"He liked activities and the people he liked to be with."

Mr Elliker said Jacob's needs were increasing to higher levels and he confirmed the prognosis that Jacob was not expected to live beyond his teens. The school broke up last week and Mr Elliker said some fellow pupils would notice Jacob's absence when the new term began in September.

He said: "We will remember Jacob in our own way, through pictures, words and memories."

One friend of the Wraggs said: "Jacob was the oldest of two boys. He was a lovely lad but it was dreadful for everyone knowing he was going to die from this Hunter syndrome."

The rare and incurable genetic disorder caused by the body's inability to produce certain enzymes affects about one in 150,000 boys. If a mother is a carrier, there is a 50 per cent chance any boy born will suffer from the illness.

Wragg is due to appear on August 5 at Lewes Crown Court.

No application for bail was made at the hearing.