The parents of a tragic baby who died at just five weeks have been cleared of child cruelty after the case against them was dropped.

Danni Knowler, 19, and 20-year-old James Lomas were facing two charges of child cruelty alleging that they caused unnecessary suffering to Freddie Lomas between October 6 and November 11 2016.

But after they entered not guilty pleas at Maidstone Crown Court, the prosecution offered no evidence against them.

Prosecutor Ryan Richter said the allegations involved the baby's "unsuitable sleeping arrangements" and exposure to cannabis and cocaine.

Traces of the drugs were found in a strand of hair from Freddie.

An expert in Strasbourg was contacted and he found it was unclear whether it occurred before or after death, said Mr Richter.

“The Crown has reviewed the case very carefully,” he added.

“We have concluded it is appropriate to offer no evidence.”

The cause of death has not been given in court.

Miss Knowler, of Northumberland Road, Maidstone, and Mr Lomas, of Howick Close, Aylesford, had been on unconditional bail.

Judge Philip St John-Stevens entered not guilty verdicts and discharged them.