Woman denies Valentine’s murder of girl, 13, in Doncaster park

Casey-Lyanne Kearney was found lying fatally injured in Elmfield Park, Doncaster, on February 14, after frantically dialling 999 to call for help.

She was taken to Doncaster Royal Infirmary but after battling for several hours, medics were unable to save her.

Hannah Bonser, 26, was arrested the same day and charged with her murder.

Bonser, of Cusworth House, in Doncaster town centre, is also charged with possessing two knives.

She appeared at Sheffield Crown Court via videolink from Low Newton Prison, in Co Durham and was wearing a grey sweatshirt and glasses.

The charge of murder was put to her by a court clerk and she pleaded not guilty.

Members of Casey-Lyanne’s family and senior police officers involved in the case looked on from the public gallery as Bonser appeared on the screen for the 15-minute hearing.

Apart from making her plea, the accused spoke only to confirm her name.

Lawyers for both the prosecution and defence said experts had been engaged to work on the case, and psychiatric reports were being compiled. Social services and other records have been requested by both sides.

A trial date has been fixed for July 2 and judge Alan Goldsack QC, the honorary Recorder of Sheffield, told Bonser she will appear at the court again for a preliminary hearing on June 26.

Bonser was remanded in custody until that date.