Woman accused of murder after girl’s body found

Rachael Cowley is accused of killing the child, whose body was found in the grounds of Raigmore Hospital in Inverness on Wednesday.

The 42-year-old, from Inverness-shire, is also charged with attempting to defeat the ends of justice.

The girl’s body was discovered after a woman and child were reported missing at about 10pm on Tuesday in Inverness, prompting a major police search. The youngster was found dead shortly after 3am at the rear of the hospital.

Cowley made no plea or declaration and was remanded in custody when she appeared at Inverness Sheriff Court.

Police said they were not yet able to name the child.