A HEREFORDSHIRE man has appeared in court charged with the manslaughter of a baby girl.

Jack Wheeler, aged 30, from Coachman's Court, Ledbury, attended Cheltenham Magistrates Court today (January 12) accused of unlawfully killing Lexi Wilband in Newent contrary to common law.

Melissa Wilband also appeared at the same court.

Hereford Times: Melissa Wilband appearing at Cheltenham Magistrates CourtMelissa Wilband appearing at Cheltenham Magistrates Court (Image: SWNS)

The 27 year-old from Newent, who is the mother of the four-month-baby, is, along with Wheeler, charged with manslaughter and the causing or allowing the death of a child.

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In a statement, Gloucestershire Constabulary said: “The four-month-old from Newent, Forest of Dean had been admitted to hospital on April 12, 2020 and died on April 18, 2020.

“Gloucestershire Constabulary’s Major Crime Investigation Team led on the investigation and the Crown Prosecution Service authorised charges.”

Wheeler and Wiband were both given conditional bail. They will next appear at Bristol Crown Court on February 19 where they will enter pleas.