A 16-year-old boy has appeared in court accused of raping and murdering six-year-old Alesha MacPhail.

Alesha was reported missing on Monday morning while staying with her father and grandparents in Rothesay on Bute.

Her body was found less than three hours later in woods.

The teenager, who cannot be named because of his age, appeared at Greenock Sheriff Court on Friday.

No plea was entered in respect of charges of murder and rape.

The accused was remanded in custody and the case was continued for further examination.

Police had earlier released a statement thanking Alesha's family.

Detective superintendent Stuart Houston said: "I'd like to take this opportunity to personally thank Alesha's family who have shown incredible bravery through what has been an unimaginable ordeal during these past few days.

"I'd also like to thank local people for all their support and assistance during this major investigation on the island.

"The response to our appeals was significant both from those living here and the wider community of Scotland.

"The people of the Isle of Bute have rallied together since Alesha was first reported missing on Monday morning and I would stress that social media speculation relating to members of the community is both misleading and inaccurate."

He added: "The family has also received considerable support from Alesha's home town of Airdrie which was reflected in the memorial service held at her school.

"Officers and staff from across Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Authority have been involved in what has been a difficult and challenging investigation during which they have worked tirelessly to bring us to where we are today."