The trial of a childminder accused of murdering a nine-month-old baby in Hapton continued at Preston Crown Court today (Thursday, June 6).

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 yesterday.

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

A total of 14 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.

Although the trial was due to be heard at 10.30am today, neither Foster, the judge nor the jury appeared in court.

The jury is yet to be sworn in by The Honourable Mr Justice Barry Cotter KC, and only once this has taken place will the prosecution be able to open the case.

The case is due to resume at 10.30am on Friday, June 7, at Preston Crown Court.

The trial continues.