A MOTHER today revealed her life is on hold until she finds out how her son died while in the care of a babysitter.

Emma Massey, 24, was in court yesterday to witness the first appearance of the woman accused of killing 19-month-old Joshua Massey- Hodgkinson.

Wendy Barlow, 37, of Eightacre Avenue, Sabden, is accused of the manslaughter of Joshua between Friday, April 16 and Saturday, April 17 at her home.

She was charged on Wednesday, and bailed unconditionally until September 17, when she will appear before Preston Crown Court.

Barlow's solicitor said Barlow would strongly deny the allegation and hoped the case would be dealt with as quickly as possible. Barlow spoke only to confirm her name and address, and that she understood she was on unconditional bail.

Emma, of St Paul's Terrace, Clitheroe, sat with family, including mother Cathy, throughout the hearing.

She said: "I am now hoping we are maybe a step closer to finding out what happened. It's something I would never want anyone else to go through but, until I know what happened, my life is pretty much on hold.

"Although I have started a new job, I have so many questions which need to be answered that it is impossible to start building again."

Emma, who previously was studying at college while also working at The Emporium bar in Clitheroe, thanked friends and family for their support.

She said: "Everyone has such fond memories of Josh, and the support we have had has been amazing.

"It has meant a lot to us.

"We have hundreds of cards from people we have never even met.

"We're very grateful for that."

Emma said she rang partner Simon Hodgkinson after the court hearing, because he was away on business in Scotland.