The family of a Sussex mother charged with the attempted murder of her seriously-ill daughter expressed their "extreme disappointment and sadness" today at her prosecution.

Kathleen Gilderdale, 54, known as Kay, was arrested at her home in Stonegate, near Heathfield, last December following the death of her daughter Lynn, 31, who was struck down with ME at the age of 14.

Gilderdale was released on police bail after being charged yesterday and will make her first appearance at Brighton Magistrates' Court next Tuesday.

In a statement today, her family said Gilderdale was a dedicated and loving mother who retained their unconditional support and they hoped matters would come to a "quick and compassionate" end.

It said: "Following the decision yesterday by the Crown Prosecution Service to charge Kay Gilderdale with the attempted murder of her daughter Lynn, her entire family wish to express their extreme disappointment and sadness regarding this course of action and reiterate their continuing and unconditional support for Kay during these difficult times.

"Her family and friends will continue to work towards ensuring that Kay is recognised as the dedicated and loving mother of Lynn who cared unreservedly for her daughter over so many years.

"Their hope is that this recognition will result in a quick and compassionate conclusion in the coming weeks."

The investigation into the death, which happened on December 4 last year, has been led by Sussex Police's major crime branch.