A 35-year-old woman has been charged with murder following the death of a five-year-old boy in Essex.

Lincoln Button died following an incident in Windstar Drive, South Ockendon, on Sunday 15 December, Essex Police said.

Police were called to the scene following reports of serious concerns for the welfare of a child and a woman, and officers worked alongside paramedics in an attempt to save Lincoln.

A woman was taken to hospital for treatment following the incident. Her condition has since improved, and she has been questioned by police, according to the force.

Claire Button, 35, of Windstar Drive, South Ockendon, has been charged with murder, Essex Police said.

She is due to appear at Southend Magistrates’ Court on Monday.

Detective chief inspector Alan Blakesley described the case as an “immensely complex investigation”.

“It has taken a huge amount of work and dedication from the investigative team to reach this stage in our investigation and I would continue to call upon the public to refrain from speculating about the circumstances around this case,” he said.

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Lincoln’s family paid tribute to him, saying: “Link was a cherished, loved, sweet, beautiful young soul who was adored by all and will be sorely missed every day.”

Lincoln was a Year 1 pupil at Bonnygate Primary School in South Ockendon, which is part of the Osborne Co-operative Academy Trust.

In a statement, the school described him as a “cheeky, smiley, happy boy who was loved fondly by our Bonnygate family”.

“His love for school, laughter and cuddles will be remembered and missed dearly,” the school said.

“The school’s priority is to support those within the community who need help to come to terms with this tragic loss.”