Shannon's mother refused bail

Updated 10.51 Fri Jun 06 2008

Keywords: Karen Matthews, Michael Donovan, Dewsbury, Shannon Matthews

The mother of Shannon Matthews, who is due to go on trial later this year, has been refused bail.

Karen Matthews, 32, is accused of perverting the course of justice and child neglect in relation to the disappearance of Shannon, nine, in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, in February.

A huge police operation involving more than 300 officers was mobilised to find Shannon. She was later found in Donovan's flat

At Leeds Crown Court, the Recorder of Leeds, Judge Peter Collier QC, heard an application for bail on her behalf behind closed doors.

The application was refused and Matthews, who was not in court, was remanded in custody.

Matthews, formerly of Moorside Road, Dewsbury, is due to go on trial alongside Michael Donovan 39, of Lidgate Gardens, Batley Carr, West Yorkshire, who is charged with Shannon's kidnapping and false imprisonment.

Shannon went missing from Dewsbury Moor on February 19 following a school swimming trip.

A huge police operation involving more than 300 officers was mobilised to find her. Shannon was later found in Donovan's flat.

Matthews and Donovan are due to go on trial on November 11.

They will next appear at Leeds Crown Court for a plea and case management hearing on September 5.