Child 'had fit' claims babysitter

Kyle Fisher died in July 2004

A babysitter accused of murdering her neighbour's young son said the child suffered a fit, a court has heard.

Suzanne Holdsworth said she did not batter two-year-old Kyle Fisher and told Teesside Crown Court she "adored" the boy who died of head injuries.

The 35-year-old of Millpool Close, Hartlepool, denies ramming the child's head against a banister in a fit of temper in July 2004.

Kyle died two days after the alleged attack of severe brain swelling.

The court heard how Ms Holdsworth, was looking after Kyle in her home while his mother, 19-year-old Clare Fisher, was at a local nightclub.

Ms Holdsworth was babysitting Kyle at the time of his death

She told jurors that she had minded the boy on four or five occasions and that he often told her he loved her and she said she loved him.

"During that night I did not batter or beat Kyle. I loved him, enjoyed looking after him and he enjoyed being with me.

"He was a lovely little lad and was adored by us and particularly my youngest daughter," she said.

Jeremy Richardson QC, defending, asked Holdsworth five times if she had hurt or injured the child and she replied "no" each time.

Andrew Robertson QC, prosecuting, said he did not believe the accused intended to kill the child.

He also said bruises on his body showed he had been gripped around the neck and shoulders while in a crawling position.

The trial continues.