THE mother of a Bicester toddler found dead last week is wanted on suspicion of her murder, police said this morning.

Detectives have named Angela Whitworth as the mother of 20-month-old Sarah Dahane.

The 40-year-old is suspected of murder after her daughter was found dead at a house in Herald Way, Glory Farm, Bicester, last Thursday.

Police believe Whitworth has left the country and may be in Kenya.

Detective Chief Inspector Ian Hunter, of Thames Valley Police, said: "We are investigating this incident as murder.

"However, I am keeping an open mind as at this time I cannot exclude an accident or natural causes contributing to Sarah's death.

"Sarah Dahane was a healthy, thriving and well-nourished child who was found dead with no obvious signs of trauma.

"This is a detailed and thorough investigation to establish the death and identify the exact circumstances into how and why Sarah died.

"There were ongoing legal proceedings regarding custody of Sarah between her mother and father.

"Angela Whitworth is 40 years old. She is a suspect but at this stage is believed to be in Kenya."