A WIRRAL couple charged after the death of a two-year-old boy appeared at Liverpool Crown Court for the first time today.
Craig Smith, 28, who appeared via video link from prison, denied murdering Teddy Tilston on March 1 this year.
In the dock was the child's mum Ashley Willet, 24, who denied a charge of causing or allowing the death of Teddy Tilston.
The couple both of Woodville Road, Birkenhead, denied two cruelty offences involving allegedly assaulting, ill-treating or neglecting the toddler and his twin sister Cassidy Tilston between July 1 last year and March 2.
Smith, who was wearing a grey sweatshirt and a crucifix on a long chain, wiped away tears after entering his not guilty pleas.
He was further remanded in custody to await their trial beginning on October 3.
Willet, who was dressed in black, was further remanded on conditional bail to the same date.
During the 45 minute hearing Judge Clement Goldstone, QC, the Recorder of Liverpool, set dates for a number of medical reports to be prepared by.
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