Jacqueline Simpson, 46, was baby-sitting Ellie Lawrenson at her home in St Helens, Merseyside, when the attack took place in the early hours of New Year's Day.

She appeared before Liverpool magistrates yesterday charged with the unlawful killing of Ellie, through gross negligence and with possessing 3.95 grams of heroin.

Dressed in jeans and a black jacket, Simpson did not enter pleas and spoke only to give her name, address and date of birth during the two-minute hearing. She was granted unconditional bail and the case was adjourned to Liverpool Crown Court on April 25.

In a separate hearing at the same court, her son, 23-year-old Kiel Simpson, appeared charged with possession of a banned American pit bull terrier. He did not enter a plea and spoke only to give his personal details.

He was granted unconditional bail to appear before Liverpool magistrates on April 25.

Ellie was killed while staying at her grandmother's home in Eccleston, St Helens, as her parents, Lindsey Simpson and Darren Lawrenson, celebrated the new year. The dog, Reuben, was shot dead by police.