Abandoned baby couple released without charge

A couple who allegedly abandoned their baby in Portugal have been released without charge by British police.

Katherine Penny and Mark Beddoes had walked into Bournemouth police station asking to talk to officers about the three-month-old child.

Dorset police say Ms Penny has not been charged in relation to the case but has been arrested on an outstanding warrant for minor motoring offences.

A police spokesman said Ms Penny, 23, was wanted for failing to appear before a magistrates court in Hampshire.

He said she will now be dealt with in relation to the motoring offences.

She has been questioned by child protection officers.

The spokesman said: "Our primary concern has always been for the health and welfare of the baby boy and his mother."

Mr Beddoes, 29, has also been questioned and released without charge.

The couple are under no obligation to return to the station in relation to the case, although Portuguese police are considering whether to start extradition proceedings.

Dorset police would not confirm whether the couple may be charged in the future.