A couple accused over the death of a two-year-old boy sobbed in court and asked for their mothers today.

Wayne Davenport, 25, and Nichola Bowman, 23, both wept and addressed family in the public gallery as they were remanded in custody over her son’s death.

Joshua Jones died on November 6 last year at his mother and her partner’s house in Tilbury Place, Murdishaw, Runcorn, Cheshire.

Today, at Runcorn Magistrates’ Court, the prosecution said Joshua had died from cardiac arrest after sustaining a head injury.

Deputy District Judge Derek French added the toddler also had "a catalogue of injuries" with a post-mortem examination revealing a bitten arm, fractured ribs and bruising.

Though the duo entered no official pleas, indications were given that they denied a charge of "familial homicide" - causing the boy’s death or doing nothing to prevent it.

The charges were brought under the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 after an eight-month investigation.

Bowman, dressed in a lime green hooded top and black t-shirt, was refused bail.

As she was taken back to the cells she sobbed "Mum, I want to go home", and could be heard wailing for nearly a minute after being taken down.

Davenport, dressed in a T-shirt and wearing glasses, began crying as he was brought into the dock.

He fought back tears, speaking only to confirm his name, address and date of birth.

There was no application for bail.

As he was led away he cried: "I want my mum."

The pair will next appear at Warrington Crown Court on 25 July.