A couple facing child neglect charges have been warned to get to Taunton Crown Court on time after turning up late for a sentencing hearing.

The pair from Ilminster, who cannot be named for legal reasons, have admitted neglect after their two young children were allegedly found with cocaine in their systems.

The man, 39, and the woman, 27, caught a bus to the court and were half-an-hour late for the hearing which was adjourned until Tuesday, August 29.

Recorder Paul Garlick QC said he will not take action over the couple being late but added: “We can’t deal with your case for reasons which have been explained to you.

“An important piece of evidence has not yet been obtained and the court does need that evidence to proceed with your case.

“I do understand public transport is a difficulty especially coming the distance you have and I understand because of your financial position that is your only means of transport.

"I would like you to make some arrangements to be here on time because it is in your interests – some judges do take a very dim view of people who are late.”

The court previously heard that the couple had been charged jointly that between February 1, 2015 and March 3, 2016 at their home address in Ilminster, they wilfully neglected a minor likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health against each of their two children.

The couple first appeared at Somerset Magistrates Court on June 12 when the court heard that their two young children had been found with cocaine in their systems and traces of other drugs on their bodies.