Woman in 'salt murder bid'

The case is being heard at the High Court in Edinburgh

A woman has gone on trial accused of attempting to murder a young girl with an overdose of salt.

Susan Hamilton, 38, of Broomhouse Street South, Edinburgh, appeared at the High Court in Edinburgh on Thursday.

She denied a charge of attempted murder and an alternative charge of reckless conduct.

It is alleged that Ms Hamilton administered solutions containing large quantities of salt, knowing it would harm the health of the girl - who is said to have suffered repeated illness and injury, requiring medical attention as a result.

In particular, it is alleged that in March 2000 she gave the youngster a solution containing so much salt that the girl, then aged eight, became seriously ill.

Both charges allege that as a result the little girl's life was placed in danger, she was severely injured and left permanently impaired.

The trial continues.