A MUM and her boyfriend will stand trial after her two-year-old daughter died with “catastrophic” head injuries.
Little Lola James was taken to hospital with “severe head trauma” when police were called to her home in July 2020 in Haverfordwest, Wales.
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Tragically, “bubbly” and “happy” girl died four days later at Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital in Cardiff.
The toddler’s mother Sinead James pleaded not guilty to causing or allowing her death in court today.
The 29-year-old is facing the charge for allegedly failing to take steps to protect her daughter.
Her boyfriend Kyle Bevan, 30, is charged with murder of the tot, which he denied.
Both defendents appeared at Swansea Crown Court today and denied the charges against them.
But the court heard they may have to wait until 2023 to stand trial over Lola’s death, with the hearing expected to last four weeks before a High Court judge.
Judge Paul Thomas QC told the defendants he could not set a trial date yet as there were still matters to be taken into consideration.
John Hipkin QC, defending Bevan, said his client denied deliberately harming Lola.
Lola died after allegedly suffering “catastrophic brain injury” from receiving “severe head trauma”.
The little one’s funeral was held in her hometown of Haverfordwest, where Lola was carried in a horse-drawn carriage.
Neighbours stood on the pavements to release balloons and clap as her heartbroken family passed by.
Paying tribute after her death, Gran Nicola James said: “Lola Patricia James, you were the constant light in our lives, the sparkle of our eye.
“You rest in the hands of the angels in a place with peace and love, brightest shining star looking down from heaven above.
“You were so bubbly, happy and kept everyone on their toes, a beautiful singer and you were always smiling.
“We would like to thank everyone who helped Lola, ambulance crew, staff at Withybush Hospital and Noah’s Ark Cardiff who did everything they could to help Lola and supported the family so well.”
Dad Dan Thomas said: “From the very first time I met my beautiful daughter, Lola Patricia James, my heart was filled with such joy, a happiness I’d never felt before, an unconditional love and need to always protect her for the rest of her life.
“Not in a millions years did I think her life would be snatched away from her in such a way.
“All the things she never had chance to learn, see or say, and all the things I will never have chance to teach her – to write her name, ride a bike or drive a car.
“Lola, you have left a hole in the hearts of everyone you met. Your sparkly eyes and beautiful smile will be missed always.
“I would like to thank every doctor, nurse and healthcare assistant that not only helped Lola, but threw everything they had at her to try and save her life.
“To the staff at Noah’s Ark, Cardiff, you truly were amazing.
“Rest in peace has never been so meaningful to me, but rest now Lola, whilst Daddy seeks the justice you deserve.”
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Source: The Sun
