Judge says runaway mother Rebecca Minnock was 'irresponsible'

The actions of a runaway mother at the heart of a custody battle were "utterly irresponsible", a judge has said.

Rebecca Minnock and relatives tried to manipulate the press with a "publicity stunt" when she fled with Ethan, three, Judge Stephen Wildblood QC ruled.

But he said he would do what he could to ensure Ethan had "an effective relationship with both parents".

Ms Minnock, 35, handed herself in on Friday after more than two weeks in hiding with Ethan.

Jon Kay reports from Bristol Crown Court.