Man denies murdering partner's toddler son in Bolton

A man has denied murdering his partner's two-year-old son.

Rio Smedley was taken to hospital from his home in Bolton on 22 April and died of a severe abdominal injury.

Daniel Rigby, 22, of Somerset Avenue, Tyldesley, Wigan, entered a plea of not guilty to a charge of murder at Manchester Crown Court on Thursday.

Rio's mother, Kirsty Smedley, 23, of Bolton, appeared in court charged with allowing or causing the death of a child.

Her case was adjourned until 6 September, when she is due to enter a plea.

Mr Rigby is due to stand trial next month.