A former couple have pleaded not guilty to murdering an 18-month-old boy who died from multiple injuries, including broken bones.

Jack Benham, 34, and Sian Hedges, 26, are now set to go on trial in October accused of killing little Alfie Phillips in Hernhill, near Faversham.

Hedges, who is Alfie’s mother, entered her plea alongside her ex-partner Benham when they appeared via videolink before a judge sitting at Aylesbury Crown Court in Buckinghamshire today.

It followed a hearing in March which revealed harrowing details of the baby’s death.

Maidstone Crown Court heard that Alfie had suffered broken ribs and fractures to his feet and toes.

Prosecutor Jennifer Knight KC said the death was due to the trauma from "the overwhelming cumulative nature of the injuries and asphyxiation".

Benham, of Highstreet Road, Hernhill, and Hedges of Fillace Park, Yelverton, Devon, were in sole charge of the baby at the time of his death in 2020, Maidstone Crown Court was told.

Alfie died on November 28 after staying the night in a caravan, the court heard.

In November 2020, Kent Police patrols and South East Coast Ambulance Service were called to the property following concerns for the welfare of the boy.

Alfie was taken to hospital for medical attention and was later pronounced deceased.

Benham and Hedges were arrested two-and-a-half years ago but were only charged this year with murder and causing or allowing the death of a child.

Both have been remanded in custody and will go on trial in October.