The trial of a childminder accused of murdering a nine-month-old baby in Hapton began at Preston Crown Court today (June 5).

Karen Foster, 62, is accused of the murder of Harlow Collinge, who died on March 5, 2022.

Foster, of Walden Grove, Burnley, denied the offence at a plea hearing in September, and her trial got underway today.

The court heard legal arguments from counsel throughout the morning session before a jury was selected in the afternoon.

Fourteen jurors have been selected for now due to the length of the trial, which is expected to last around six weeks.

This will be cut down to a final 12 once the prosecution’s case has been heard in full.

Foster sat in the dock wearing a white cardigan and black trousers during the hearing, walking to her seat with a single crutch.

She spoke only to confirm her name.

The Honourable Mr Justice Barry Cotter KC told the jurors they will be sworn in when they return to court tomorrow (June 6).

The prosecution’s case is set to begin following this.

The trial continues.