A STOURPORT couple who carried out a catalogue of cruelty to their two-year-old son have been given custody of the child by social services.

The couple each pleaded guilty to two charges of cruelty to a child.

Worcester Crown Court heard that the boy had been locked in a cupboard, held over a sewer, had a bag placed over his head, slept on a filthy mattress and his parents failed to get help for him after a car accident and when he fell downstairs.

The offences were alleged to have taken place in December last year. Defence barrister Adam Western said that the boy had been taken off the At Risk register by social services on March 22.

The couple had moved to live with the child's maternal grandmother in Stourport. Mr Western said that if social services had any concerns that the boy would be at risk, they would not have closed the case.

He added: "Social services only make a decision like that after hearing from the social worker who has had frequent and regular dealings with the family."

Judge Andrew Geddes remanded the couple on bail to live at the grandmother's home and for a pre-sentence report. He said he found the case "very worrying" and it raised concerns that such conduct could happen again.

He ordered senior social services officials to attend court to give an explanation. After a hearing in chambers, Judge Geddes said he had been assured that the child was not in any danger.

He announced in open court: "After having the history of this matter explained to me, I am satisfied that the child is being properly protected. Social services are fully aware of the situation and there is no danger to the child."