The man accused of killing schoolgirl Sarah Payne today pleaded not guilty to her kidnap and murder.

Roy Whiting, 42, is accused of abducting eight year-old Sarah near her grandparents' house in Kingston Gorse, near Littlehampton on July 1 last year and later murdering her.

Whiting, a former mechanic, appeared at Lewes Crown Court this morning where he formally entered a plea of not guilty to both charges.

During the brief hearing, Sarah's mother Sara Payne sat just yards from the man accused of killing her daughter, watching him intently.

The atmosphere in the packed courtroom was hushed as Judge Richard Brown read out the charges.

Whiting, who appeared in the dock flanked by three security guards, spoke only to confirm his name.

He wore a bright red, white and blue striped top and black trousers and his greying dark brown hair was unkempt. He shifted uncomfortably in the dock with one hand fidgeting at his mouth.

Earlier, a crowd of photographers, journalists and passers-by had gathered outside the court in High Street Lewes to wait for the arrival of the Payne family.

Part of the road was coned off by police and scores of officers kept watch over the crowd.

Sarah's uncle Keith Payne, 39, from South London, arrived before the rest of family and kept watch outside the courtroom.

Sara Payne arrived with Sarah's grandparents Lesley and Terry Payne in a silver people carrier car. Sarah's father Michael Payne was not with them.

Mrs Payne paused outside the court to pose for photographers before going inside to take her seat in the public gallery.

She wore a black leather jacket, black trousers and a white top.

Whiting arrived from prison and was ushered into the court through a back entrance away from the crowds.

The case was adjourned until September 7. A trial is expected to begin on November 13. Whiting will remain in custody until then.