A WOMAN accused of abandoning two children in a filthy flat in Port Glasgow for 'several days' could have the prosecution against her dropped on mental health grounds.

Lawyers acting for Kelly Marie Sleith — who was arrested in England — are exploring the possibility that she may not be criminally responsible for her alleged actions.

Sleith, 37, had been due to stand trial at Greenock Sheriff Court on Monday, with two child witnesses in attendance to give evidence in the case.

Her solicitor won an adjournment in order to have his client assessed by a psychiatrist regarding a potential defence under section 51a of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act.

The legislation states: 'A person is not criminally responsible for conduct constituting an offence, and is to be acquitted of the offence, if the person was at the time of the conduct unable by reason of mental disorder to appreciate the nature or wrongfulness of the conduct.'

Sleith, who now lives in St John's Road in Gourock, is accused of wilfully neglecting youngsters aged 12 and 14 in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering or injury to health.

It is alleged that she left them in a property in Port Glasgow which was infested with flies and insects, damp, unhygienic and covered with rotting food, domestic waste and excrement.

Prosecutors say she failed to provide adequate food, nutrition, clothing, heating, lighting, bedding and dental care.

Sleith is accused of leaving the children unsupervised within the property for several days between August 28 and September 12 in 2020.

Her lawyer told the court: "There is a defence motion to adjourn.

"Ms Sleith has been seeking mental health support since being apprehended in England in October.

"She has exhibited symptoms of psychosis which the local mental health team has assessed, on the face of it, as valid.

"Ms Sleith has been proactive in trying to get a diagnosis and clarity for the position she finds herself in."

The solicitor added: "I am conscious that there are two child witnesses and my motion is for a notional trial in two months time.

"This should allow us the opportunity to gather medical records and assess the position."

Procurator fiscal depute Pamela Brady said: "It is a worrying and sensitive case and I'm keen to avoid having child witnesses having to attend court again."

The case is due to call again on July 20.