A PENARTH mother was this week charged with the murder of her 11-year-old autistic son.

Yvonne Freaney, of Salop Street, was arrested after Glen, a pupil at Ashgrove School in Penarth, was found dead at the Sky Plaza Hotel near Rhoose on Saturday (May 15).

The 48-year-old, who has three other children, all older than Glen, appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday wearing a black t-shirt and with bandages on her wrists.

Nicholas Cooke QC, Recorder of Cardiff, remanded Freaney to the Caswell Clinic, a secure mental health unit in Bridgend. Her case is next listed for June 14 at the same court.

South Wales Police said they attended the three-star hotel near Cardiff Airport after friends and relatives expressed concerns for Glen’s safety – but when officers arrived, he was already dead.

The last confirmed sighting of Glen alive was on Thursday, and police believe that he probably died on Thursday, May 13 or Friday, May 14. A post mortem examination was carried out on Sunday.

An incident room was initially set up in Penarth Police Station but a major incident room has since been established at Bridgend Police Station.

Chief Superintendent Carl Davies, Divisional Commander for the Vale of Glamorgan and Bridgend division, said: "It is especially heartbreaking that the incident has involved somebody so young.

"This will no doubt be a huge shock to the local community. A thorough and professional investigation will continue."

The youngster's family say they are devastated by the tragedy.

In a statement, issued through South Wales Police, they said: "Glen was a wonderful, beautiful, happy boy. Our family are extremely proud of him, especially his achievements, despite his condition.

"It cannot be underestimated how much Glen was loved by all of us.

"He has deeply touched us during his time with us, and we are all devastated by this tragedy."

Friends of Yvonne Freaney, who was treasurer at the Penarth RAFA Club, have described the 48-year-old as a ‘lovely woman’.

Salop Street neighbour, Vikki Edwards, said: "I’ve known her for the best part of 30 years.

"Yvonne’s a lovely woman and I just don't understand how this has happened, it’s tragic.

"I've lived here since July but haven't seen the family much in that time. I'm not even sure if they lived here permanently."

Shop workers in the town who knew her were also shocked at the news.

Sue Wingren, who works at the Co-op on Windsor Road, said: "For the last two years I haven't seen her out and about that much but when she has been in the shop, she’s always been okay.

"The last time I saw her was two weeks ago. I served her and she seemed fine."

Teachers and pupils at Ashgrove School in Penarth are also struggling to come to terms with Glen’s death.

Headteacher, Chris Britten, said: "Glen will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He was a lively character, always on the go and interested in everything around him.

“His love of drawing led to a prize from the mayor earlier this year. Indeed, anything or anyone standing still for long enough would soon become part of Glen’s art work!

“He was at his happiest when playing outside on the bikes and scooters with boundless energy. He thoroughly enjoyed watching all types of transport, especially lorries and fire engines, which would result in him jumping with excitement.

"Glen was a huge part of Ashgrove," he added.

"He was mischievous and loveable and will be remembered by staff and pupils with great fondness.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Glen’s family as they, like us, struggle to come to terms with our loss."

The Vale Council’s directorate of learning and development has put in place arrangements to support pupils and staff.

* South Wales Police has appealed to anyone who saw Glen at the Sky Plaza Hotel, or in the last week, to contact them. Anyone with information is asked to call 01656 679585 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.