The prosecution said they then moved into 71-year-old Lily Lilley's home in Failsworth, Oldham, and "trashed" it.

The two girls, who were 14 and 15 at the time of the alleged murder, have pleaded not guilty. They cannot be named for legal reasons.

Mrs Lilley's body was found in Rochdale Canal.

'I don't believe we're doing this'

Richard Henriques QC, prosecuting, said she had choked to death on her false teeth after a bandage was tied tightly around her face.

He said there was also evidence she was beaten and cut with a knife before her death.

Mr Henriques said the older of the two girls told locals she was Mrs Lilley's granddaughter.

The court heard how a witness saw the two girls pushing the bin and overheard one of them say: "I don't believe we are doing this."

'In it together'

The other girl allegedly replied: "Yeah, whatever."

The girls, who were homeless at the time, were also accused of wrecking Mrs Lilley's house and making hundreds of phone calls.

They were arrested after local children found the back door to the property open. The police were alerted.

The prosecution said Mrs Lilley's body was found after the younger girl's mother contacted the police.

Mr Henriques said: "They were plainly in it together. They each were responsible for the conduct of each other."

The court only sits outside school hours and the court officials do not wear gowns or wigs in order to appear less intimidating.