THE trial of two women accused of murdering a Keighley toddler last year will get underway this week at Bradford Crown Court.

Savannah Brockhill and Frankie Smith have both been charged with the murder of 16-month-old Star Hobson, and also with causing or allowing the death of the young girl.

Brockhill, 28, of Hawthorn Close, Keighley, and Smith, 20, of Wesley Place, Halifax Road, Keighley, have both denied all charges against them.

They both first appeared in court last September and the trial has been delayed twice, once in May due to the need for an expert report, and then again at the beginning of this month as a barrister had tested positive for Covid-19.

It will now get underway on Tuesday following the swearing in of a new jury on Monday.

Star Hobson was taken to hospital on September 22, 2020, and was pronounced deceased a short time later.

Following her death there was an outpouring of grief and emotion from the community in Keighley.

Star’s father, Jordan Hobson, said he felt like “a piece of me is now missing” and that his daughter was going to be sadly missed.

Her grandmother, Yvonne Spendley, added: "This has left a big hole in everyone's hearts and Star will never be forgotten."

Keighley Councillors also paid tribute to little Star, calling her death “devastating” and “tragic”.

The trial will begin on Tuesday, and will be covered live by the Telegraph & Argus. You will be able to follow all the updates from the trial in our daily live blog.

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