Fiona Adams, 23, appeared at Nottingham Crown Court on Monday when she pleaded not guilty to the murder of Niamh Maynard, five, and Cayden Maynard, two.

She also pleaded not guilty to causing grievous bodily harm and arson with intent to endanger life.

Niamh and Cayden died when fire ripped through their family home on Edale Way shortly before midnight on Friday, April 23.

Their mother managed to escape the property with their baby brother Kiernan.

Adams was remanded in custody.

Her trial will take place at Nottingham Crown Court, starting on January 31, 2011.

• People in Fairfield and the surrounding area were left devastated by the tragic events.

The community immediately responded by rallying round, and fundraising for a permanent memorial to Niamh and Cayden began within days. The Official Niamh and Cayden Memorial Fund now stands at £13,062.39.

Official fundraising has now stopped though the fund will remain open for any donations.

No money has yet been paid out and the format of the permanent memorial to the children has not yet been decided.

Hundreds turned out for the funerals of the two children at St Peter's Church, Fairfield, in June.