Toddler injuries 'a big surprise'

Nichola Bowman and Wayne Davenport deny the charges against them

A 26-year-old man accused of killing the two-year-old son of his girlfriend said he was surprised when he learned about the boy's injuries.

Joshua Jones was found dead at the home of Nichola Bowman, 24, and Wayne Davenport, in Tilbury Place, Runcorn, in November 2007.

Mr Davenport is on trial for manslaughter, at Chester Crown Court.

Giving evidence, Mr Davenport insisted he was innocent and denied repeatedly abusing Joshua before his death.

Mr Davenport told the court that children "are the people of tomorrow" and that he would never stand by in the knowledge that a child was being abused.

If all the experts are saying it then unequivocally someone had been abusing Josh Wayne Davenport

Mr Davenport was alone with the Joshua when the boy lost consciousness at the family home, the court heard.

He died in hospital from a swollen brain caused by a bang to the head.

Doctors found injuries including a two breaks to his left arm, bruising to his genitals, thighs, knees, back, arms and skull.

Michael Chambers QC, prosecuting, asked Mr Davenport, "Who has done this?".

Mr Davenport answered, "Clearly sir, I couldn't give you that answer".

Joshua's mother Nichola Bowman, 24, also denies causing or allowing the toddler's death.

'Suicide plan'

Mr Davenport said: "All the experts are saying, 'That's a non-accidental injury and that's a non-accidental injury' and I can't speak for Nichola.

"If all the experts are saying it then unequivocally someone had been abusing Josh."

He said learning of Joshua's injuries was a "big surprise" and hurting a child would be "unethical and immoral".

Mr Davenport told the court he had planned to take an overdose to end his life after Joshua's death and after seeing Ms Bowman with another man, but he changed his mind.

The case continues.