A MOTHER has admitted murdering her 20-month-old daughter three years ago at her home in Bicester.

Angela Whitworth, 44, of Herald Way, killed Sarah Dahane at her home in Herald Way, Bicester, on May 15, 2013.

Sarah's body was found in the house a day after her mum fled to Nairobi in Kenya.

Earlier this year, Thames Valley Police launched a public appeal for help to find Whitworth and offered a reward of £10,000 for information.

Ugandan National Police arrested Whitworth on Wednesday, March 9, before she was brough back to Britain and charged with murder.

During a brief hearing yesterday at the Old Bailey, Whitworth, who is in custody, pleaded guilty to murder.

The facts of the case were not given by the prosecution and Mr Justice Saunders put off sentencing until October 4.

Senior investigating officer Det Supt Ian Hunter said: "Whitworth flew to Kenya immediately after the murder in a bid to evade justice.

"From the time that Sarah's body was discovered on 16 May 2013, we have continued to work tirelessly to ensure the person responsible for her death was able to face justice in the UK courts.

"This has been a protracted, complex and challenging investigation from the outset.

"I am pleased for Sarah's father Nabil, and those who knew and loved Sarah, that Whitworth has finally, after more than three years, taken responsibility for her actions."

At the time of the appeal Sarah's father, Nabil Dahane, said: "My one and only daughter Sarah was so beautiful, lovely and lively. She loved everyone and everyone just loved her back.

"Our time together was really happy and precious. She meant the world to me, still does and will always do regardless.

"Sarah's tragic loss has had a profound impact on my life and I am still struggling to come to terms with it all. It may never go away but to see justice being done for my daughter may ease my pain."

There was an ongoing custody battle between Whitworth and Mr Dahane.