The mother of Shannon Matthews has appeared in court to face charges in connection with the alleged abduction of her daughter.

She was remanded in custody until April 16.

Karen Matthews was arrested on Sunday evening and was charged last night with child neglect and perverting the course of justice.

The second charge claims she "repeatedly concealed information in relation to the whereabouts of Shannon Matthews in interviews and other contacts with officers with the West Yorkshire Police".

Earlier, Matthews, of Moorside Road, Dewsbury Moor, West Yorkshire, was led out of Dewsbury police station in handcuffs and was then driven the short distance into the back of the town's magistrates' court.

During the 13-minute hearing, Matthews was flanked by four dock officers.

Her red hair was brushed down and partially concealed her face.

Throughout the proceedings she looked at the district judge and only glanced at her friends near the end of the hearing as she was told she would be remanded in custody.

Wearing a blue sweatshirt, she was handcuffed as she was brought into the courtroom, which was packed with media, Moorside Road residents and police, as well as court officials and lawyers.

Shannon was found in the base of a bed at an address just a mile from her home after a 24-day police search.

Her discovery followed a huge search which began after Matthews reported her daughter missing on February 19 when she did not return from school.

A massive search operation began, which involved more than 300 officers.

Matthews is the latest family member to be arrested in connection with her daughter's disappearance.

Michael Donovan, of Lidgate Gardens, Batley Carr, was arrested on March 14, after Shannon was found in his flat.

He was later charged with Shannon's kidnap and false imprisonment and is in custody awaiting trial at Leeds Crown Court on November 11. The 39-year-old, formerly known as Paul Drake, is the uncle of Matthews' partner Craig Meehan.