Mother accused of killing toddlers

THE mother of two toddlers whose bodies were found in holdalls in the boot of her car was remanded in custody yesterday charged with their murders.

Three-year-old Harry and two-year-old Elise Donnison were found by officers after their mother, Fiona Donnison, went to Heathfield police station in East Sussex on Wednesday.

Donnison, 43, of Lightwater in Surrey, appeared at Lewes Magistrates' Court accused of the murders between 25 and 28 January after being charged yesterday.

Donnison, wearing a long blue jumper, held her hands clasped in front of her as she spoke only to confirm her name, date of birth and address. There was no bail application and no plea was entered. She will appear at Lewes Crown Court for a preliminary hearing on 12 February.

About half a dozen relatives were in court, some of whom became visibly upset as Donnison entered the dock. As she was led away, two people shouted, "We love you, Fiona."

An initial post-mortem revealed the children died from asphyxia, and had been dead for less than 24 hours when they were found in Donnison's silver Nissan, parked near the former family home in Heathfield.

Detectives said toxicology results were awaited to confirm the cause of death.

Former City worker Donnison, who is estranged from her husband Paul, was discharged from Eastbourne District General Hospital on Saturday night after being treated for apparently self-inflicted wounds. The court was told she would be transferred to a psychiatric unit.