Teenager denies killing PC Andrew Harper during 'quad bike burglary'

Another defendant has admitted conspiracy to steal a quad bike before officer died

PC Andrew Harper, a member of the roads policing proactive unit, died after responding to reports of a burglary on 15 August (EPA)

A teenage boy has denied killing a police officer who was run over while responding to a reported burglary.

The 17-year-old defendant pleaded not guilty to the manslaughter of PC Andrew Harper during a hearing at the Old Bailey in London.

The teenager, who cannot be named for legal reasons, also denied a charge of conspiracy to steal.

He was not asked to enter pleas to the further charge of murder.

Henry Long, 18, and a second 17-year-old boy have also been charged with murder, an alternative of manslaughter and conspiracy to steal a quad bike.

They did not enter pleas on Friday and another hearing was set for 7 January.

A fourth defendant, Thomas King, was accused of conspiracy to steal a quad bike over the same incident on 15 August.

The 21-year-old, from Basingstoke, pleaded guilty to the charge and was granted bail until his sentencing at the conclusion of proceedings against the other defendants.

A six-week trial is due to start at the Old Bailey on 9 March.

PC Harper, a Thames Valley Police officer, was killed on 15 August near the village of Sulhamstead in Berkshire.

The 28-year-old died from multiple injuries after being dragged under a van, four weeks after his wedding.

Additional reporting by PA