The trial of two people charged following the death of a toddler in Darlington is due to get underway this morning.

At an earlier hearing, Chris Stockton denied the murder of Charlie Roberts when he appeared at Teesside Crown Court.

The 38-year-old and the child’s mother, Paula Roberts, 40, are both charged with child neglect. The pair both deny the charge.

Chris Stockton with Paula Roberts and toddler Charlie RobertsChris Stockton with Paula Roberts and toddler Charlie Roberts (Image: Facebook)

Charlie died the day after an incident at their home in Frosterley Drive, Darlington, on Friday, January 12, which left him critically injured.

He died in hospital the following day.

Charlie RobertsCharlie Roberts (Image: Facebook)

Stockton, of Neasham Road, Darlington, remains remanded into custody until the next hearing.

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Floral tributes to Charlie RobertsFloral tributes to Charlie Roberts (Image: Northern Echo)

Roberts, of Darlington, has been granted conditional bail.

They are both due to appear at the same court for a three-week trial front of a High Court judge Mr Justice Goss.

Durham Constabulary attended the scene with medics from the North East Ambulance Service and the Great North Air Ambulance Service, which landed on the green at Alexandra Street.

And floral tributes were placed outside the property as a mark of respect to the toddler.