A FOUR-year nightmare ended today for an Accrington mum as police announced they would not be bringing any charges against her following the deaths of her two babies.

Donna Hanson was arrested on suspicion of the murder of the two babies - Ashley and Toby Woods - in December 1999.

Ten month-old Ashley died in December 1998 and his four month-old brother died the following September. Both died suddenly and in both cases the cause of death was unascertained.

A verdict of natural causes was recorded at the inquest into Ashley's death but the inquest into Toby's death has been repeatedly ajourned.

Donna was living with Toby's father Robert Woods, in Pendle Street, Accrington and was questioned by police after Toby's death.

In July 2000, the Crown Prosecution Service provided advice to the Lancashire Constabulary in respect of the evidence generated by the investigation into the deaths.

Following the recent conclusion of related care proceedings, police and CPS said they have further reviewed all the relevant evidence and, as in 2000, obtained written opinion from leading counsel.

"The view of the CPS is that the evidence does not provide a realistic prospect of a conviction against Donna Hanson, the mother of Ashley and Toby Woods, and accordingly the Lancashire Constabulary has decided not to prefer any charge," police said in a statement.

The inquest into Toby's death will shortly resume and the police and CPS will consider any new evidence that is brought before the coroner and, if appropriate, re-review the matter.

Detective Inspector Jim Elston said: "The difficult and tragic circumstances behind this investigation affected both Toby and Ashley's family and the police officers involved in the inquiry.

"A large number of health and medical professionals had to be interviewed and expert opinion was sought throughout.

"A close working relationship was maintained with the CPS and counsel who advised in this case and the constabulary fully accepts their decisions.

"Miss Hanson and the coroner have been informed."

The inquest into Toby's death has been listed for mention at Blackburn Coroner's Court on August 12.