KAREN Matthews was today remanded in custody when she appeared in court to face charges in connection with the alleged abduction of her nine-year-old daughter, Shannon.

KAREN Matthews was today remanded in custody when she appeared in court to face charges in connection with the alleged abduction of her nine-year-old daughter, Shannon.

Matthews, of Moorside Road, Dewsbury Moor, West Yorkshire, was charged last night with perverting the course of justice and child neglect.

Earlier today she was led out of Dewsbury police station in handcuffs and driven to the town's magistrates' court.

Shannon was found in the base of a bed at an address just a mile from her home after a 24-day police search.

Her discovery followed a huge search which began after Matthews reported her daughter missing on February 19 when she did not return from school.

A massive search operation began, which involved more than 300 officers.

Matthews is the latest family member to be arrested in connection with her daughter's disappearance.

Michael Donovan, of Lidgate Gardens, Batley Carr, was arrested on March 14, after Shannon was found in his flat.

He was later charged with Shannon's kidnap and false imprisonment and is in custody awaiting trial at Leeds Crown Court on November 11.

The 39-year-old, formerly known as Paul Drake, is the uncle of Matthews' partner Craig Meehan.

Matthews was remanded in custody until April 16.