Mother accused of daughter murder

She was a lovely little girl who had that special ability to light up our day Golftyn Primary School statement

A woman has appeared in court charged with the murder of her four-year-old daughter.

Joanne Marie Hill, 31, of Connah's Quay, Flintshire, appeared before Chester magistrates during a three-minute hearing.

She is accused of killing Naomi Hill at Connah's Quay on Monday.

She spoke to confirm her name, age and address and was remanded in custody until 10 December, when she will appear at Chester Crown Court.

Naomi was pronounced dead at the Countess of Chester Hospital on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, police have been making house-to-house inquiries in and around Goya Close, where Ms Hill lives.

Resident Mike Chare said the cul-de-sac was in "complete shock" at the death.

A post-mortem examination was carried out on Wednesday at Alder Hey Hospital, Liverpool. The results have not yet been disclosed.

Naomi was in a reception class at Golftyn Primary School in Connah's Quay.

'Thoughts and prayers'

Head teacher Paul Schleising said: "At the moment everyone in the school - pupils and staff - are just trying to come to terms with Naomi's loss and what has happened."

There was more police activity in Goya Close on Thursday

In a statement the school said: "Staff, pupils, parents and the whole school community are devastated by the news of the death of Naomi.

"She was a lovely little girl who had that special ability to light up our day. She also had the very special gift of bringing out the best in everyone who knew her.

"Naomi was in our nursery and had recently moved up to our reception class. She was a much loved little girl, a very special member of our school community.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Naomi's family right now as they too try to come to terms with the dreadful loss of Naomi.

"The school has appreciated the support it has received from Flintshire LEA (local education authority) and the local community."