Thomas Cashman has refused to appear in the dock as he is sentenced for the murder of nine-year-old schoolgirl Olivia Pratt-Korbel. 

The 34-year-old was due to appear at Manchester Crown Court, which was guarded by armed police, on Monday. Cashman's barrister told the court the 34-year-old will not appear for sentencing amid fears of a "circus". 

Professor John Cooper said : "He was aware the CPS were singing ‘We are the Champions’ on Friday, loudly.

"When the matter was raised with them, they said, we are entitled to."

Justice Yip: “With respect Mr Cooper I don’t think that has anything to do with whether he is in court to hear his sentence and the reasons for his sentence.”

Mr Cooper counters: “With respect, My Lady, it does.”

He added: “He has been spoken to and given certain advice, but is concerned that the matter is turning into a circus.”

Olivia's mother, Cheryl Korbel, attended the hearing clutching a teddy bear she also held when Cashman was convicted.

Cashman was found guilty following an 18 day trial of the murder of Olivia, the attempted murder of his intended target Joseph Nee, and the wounding with intent of Cheryl Korbel on August 22 last year. 

He was also found guilty of two counts of possessing a firearm with intent to endanger life.

Olivia was murdered in August last year.