Pictured: Couple charged with manslaughter after dog mauled their three-year-old son to death on farm

A couple have appeared in court charged with manslaughter after their three-year-old son was mauled to death by a dog.

Toddler Daniel Twigg died from his injuries after being attacked by a dangerous dog on Carr Farm in Milnrow, Rochdale on May 15, 2022.  

His mother and father Mark Twigg, 42, and Joanne Bedford, 36, appeared at Manchester and Salford Magistrates' Court on Wednesday charged with gross negligence manslaughter.

Twigg was dressed in a grey jumper and dark trousers, whilst Bedford wore a white blouse and black pants.

The pair only spoke to confirm their names, date of birth and address. 

No pleas were entered and the couple, of Radcliffe, Bury, were given unconditional bail to appear at Manchester Crown Court for a plea hearing on September 4.

Officers were called to the farm at 3.22pm after receiving reports that the child was 'unconscious and not breathing'.

Following the incident, Daniel was rushed to the Royal Manchester Children's Hospital but was later pronounced dead.

Authorities destroyed a Cane Corso breed and seized another ten dogs after launching a 'significant' investigation into the little boy's death.

Pictures of the property in Carr Lane, Milnrow, Rochdale, showed 'beware of the dog' warning signs plastered on the gates outside.

A statement from the family previously shared by Greater Manchester Police described Daniel as a 'happy, kind and caring little boy who was loved by all who knew him'.

It read: 'He loved Paw Patrol and playing with his brother and sister, he also loved being around animals - especially his pony, Splash.

'He brought us many laughs and was a comical character. He was brave, intelligent and full of many characteristics.

'Daniel loved being with his whole family and will be missed by all. On behalf of our family, we ask people to respect our privacy.'