THE uncle of two-year-old Leeds girl Casey Leigh Mullen is to make his first crown court appearance via video link today, charged with her rape and murder.

Michael Mullen, 21, was appearing at Leeds Crown Court.

He was charged after the toddler was found in a pool of blood at her home in Oak Tree Crescent, Gipton, east Leeds, on February 11.

A post-mortem revealed that the youngster died from compression of the neck.

Mullen, of Lawrence Road, appeared before magistrates in Leeds last week, when he was remanded in custody.

Neighbours have described the victim as a "lovely little girl, always smiling".