A community has reacted with shock and concern to the news that a former resident's baby daughter died of head injuries.

Residents living in Malvern Avenue, Hapton, where Samantha Shales used to live, said they were stunned to learn that 11-month-old Courtney Ann Shales was found dead.

Courtney died following an incident at her home in Railway Street, Nelson, last Wednesday night.

A 37-year-old woman has been charged with her murder.

Babysitter Lynn Jeffrey, of Poplar Street, Nelson, was remanded in custody when she appeared before Burnley magistrates on Saturday.

She will appear at Preston Crown Court later this year It is the second time Samantha, 26, has suffered a family tragedy.

In 1996 when the family were living in Hapton, Samantha's mother, mum-of-four Shirley Shales, 34, died after an eight-year battle against a rare heart and lung problem.

The Shales's former next door neighbour Ann Hayman, who has lived in Malvern Avenue for 20 years, said her thoughts were with Samantha.

She said: "It is awful news. My daughter went to school with Samantha and grew up next door to us.

"It is really shocking this has happened. She was always a really quiet girl and I hope she is coping OK."

Another neighbour, Joanne Bryan, who has lived in the street for 15 years added: "I remember the family really well, they were a nice a family.

"It is a real shock what has happened, the baby was so young.

"I heard about it last week when a friend came round and told me. No-one can believe what has happened."

Following Shirley's death the family moved to Nelson. Samantha, who has three brothers, Matthew 24, Martin, 22 and Andrew, 21 and her father Ken, 53, moved from their Charles Street home last July to Railway Street.

l An inquest has been opened in to Courtney's death.

Coroner's officer Steve Rothwell said a post-mortem examination found Courtney had died from head injuries.

The hearing was adjourned while further inquiries are made into the death.