A 17-year-old from Watford has appeared in court after being charged with taking a Lexus and having a lock knife in public.

The boy admitted taking a motor vehicle without the owner’s consent in Edmonton on January 27 this year, during an appearance in Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court.

He was also charged with possession of a knife blade or sharp pointed article in a public place, in Enfield on the same day, which he denied in court.

A charge of cannabis possession was withdrawn at a previous hearing, on February 17, when he entered the two pleas.

His most recent appearance in Highbury Corner Magistrates' Court was on March 31 and a trial date was set for April 26 at the same court.

He was granted bail with conditions.

A charge of taking without the owner’s consent differs from theft because theft requires the intention to permanently deprive the owner of the property.