Mother admits manslaughter of daughter, 2, in pond

Annabel Mackey was a "beautiful, positive and very happy little girl", her father previously said

A mother has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of her two-year-old daughter who was found in a pond.

Annabel Mackey died in hospital after being pulled from Kingsley Pond in Hampshire on 10 September 2023.

Alice Mackey, 42, of Oakhanger, was in a state of "diminished responsibility" at the time according to two psychiatrists, Winchester Crown Court was told.

She was remanded in custody to be sentenced on 6 October.

The two year old was reported missing from her home in Forge Road, Kingsley, a short time before she was found in the pond.

She died the following afternoon in hospital.

The defendant entered a not guilty plea to a charge of murder which the court heard was acceptable to the prosecution.

In a statement released through police after Annabel's death, her father said: "Annabel was a beautiful, positive and very happy little girl.

"She had an incredibly pure and caring nature that we miss so much. She loved story time, dogs and her dolly.

"She enjoyed singing songs and nursery rhymes and had a very sweet tooth.

"Annabel loved to laugh, she brought so much happiness into our lives. She was dearly loved by her family and friends."

He thanked everyone who had been a "positive influence" in her life, saying the "world needs more people like Annabel to spread positivity and kindness".

"Annabel, I love you so much, you are a shining star and you will be loved forever."