Trial opens into death of Camber toddler

The tot died in her bedroom at her family home in Pelwood Road, Camber, in February 2004.

Her mother Lesley was in the dock at Lewes Crown Court accused of her murder, a charge she denies.

She sat impassive, wearing glasses and a blue hooded top, as prosecutor Sally Howes QC outlined the case against her.

Mrs Howes said: “Somebody stopped Lucy from breathing - that is the nub of it.

“Bruising found on her shoulders and neck suggest she was held face down into a soft surface such as a pillow.

“The marks suggest there were hands around her neck.”

The court heard that when Dunford was arrested for the murder in July last year she told a female police officer “I have been waiting for this to happen.”

A pathologist’s report said “The nature of Lucy’s bruises indicated some form of struggle.”

The trial continues on Monday.