Murder accused Joanne Sharkey makes first appearance in court

Last night, Monday, Cheshire Police revealed it had charged Joanne Sharkey with the murder of baby Callum who was found wrapped in a black plastic bin bag in woodland near Gulliver’s World in 1998.

She also faces a charge of concealment of the birth of a child.

The 54-year-old, of Denham Close in West Derby, Liverpool, appeared before Warrington Magistrates’ Court this morning, Tuesday.

Sharkey, who has brown hair which she wore in a ponytail, spoke to confirm her name, date of birth, and address.

She appeared to be shaking as she was in court.

The funeral of Baby Callum back in 1998 (Image: PA)

Addressing Sharkey, who wore a brown jumper, the chair of the magistrates’ bench, Fraser Geekie, said: “These proceedings are too serious to deal with here.

“Your next appearance will be at Liverpool Crown Court, and that will be on April 18.

“Between now and then, you will be remanded in custody.”

The hearing lasted three minutes.

Sharkey was arrested in July 2023 along with a man who has since been released without charge, Cheshire Police said.

READ> All we know about Baby Callum as woman charged in murder probe

Detectives named the infant Callum after the Callands district of Warrington where he was found dead, as his true identity could not be confirmed.

A funeral service was arranged by local people and he was buried in Warrington Cemetery a few months later.

The headstone, which was paid for with money raised by local residents, was inscribed: "Baby Callum, precious child of God. Laid to rest July 27, 1998. With love, from the people of Warrington."

Detective Inspector Hannah Friend, of Cheshire Police's major crime review team, said: "I understand that this is an extremely emotional case which has attracted a lot of attention over the past 26 years, however I would ask people not to speculate.

"Criminal proceedings are now active against Joanne Sharkey and she has the right to a fair trial."