A woman accused of murdering two children in an arson attack more than 16 years ago has been denied bail in Oxford Crown Court.

Fiaz Munshi, of Manley Road, Oldham, Lancashire, appeared yesterday charged with the murder of eight-year-old Anum Khan on August 26, 1997, and 15-year-old Majid Khan on August 28, 1997.

Five people were convicted in 1998 of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment after the fire in Magdalen Road.

The 38-year-old had her application for bail refused and will next appear for a plea and case management hearing on February 3. Her trial is expected to be held in April.