Sketch artist in court as woman charged with murder of Baby Callum

It follows the first appearance of Joanne Sharkey before Warrington Magistrates’ Court this morning, Tuesday, in relation to criminal proceedings in the investigation.

The 54-year-old, of Denham Close in West Derby, Liverpool, is accused of murder and concealing the birth of a child.

Callum, named after the Callands district of Warrington where he was found, died on March 14 1998.

Discovered at around 11am wrapped in a black plastic bin bag in woodland near Gulliver’s World, he would have only been a few hours old when he died, having been born weighing just 7lb 8oz.

Joanne Sharkey as she appeared before Warrington Magistrates' Court this morning by sketch artist Elizabeth Cook (Image: Elizabeth Cook/PA)

Sharkey spoke only to confirm her name, date of birth and address in court this morning, appearing to be shaking as she did so.

She had brown hair, which she wore in a ponytail, and was wearing a brown jumper – as shown in a court sketch by sketch artist Elizabeth Cook, commissioned by PA.

Concluding the brief, three-minute hearing, chair magistrate 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.”

One of Cheshire’s longest-running open murder investigations, Cheshire Police revealed that it had arrested two people in July last year – a man and a woman.

READ> All we know about Baby Callum as murder accused appears in court

Both were released on bail, with Sharkey rearrested yesterday, Monday, before being charged with murder and remanded in custody.

The man who was arrested as part of the investigation has since been released without charge.

The force has confirmed that officers are not looking for anyone else in relation to the death.

DI 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.

A funeral was organised by Warrington residents for Baby Callum (Image: Warrington Guardian)

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

Residents rallied following the disturbing discovery, raising more than £800 to pay for a headstone engraved with a shepherd.

This was to be used when Callum was buried at Warrington Cemetery on Manchester Road more than four months later.

It was inscribed: “Baby Callum, precious child of God. Laid to rest July 27, 1998. With love, from the people of Warrington.”