Kingston: A Roehampton woman who was caught on video shaking and slapping two toddlers in her care could be jailed for her cruelty.

Nanny Kelly Lawrence, of Stroud Crescent, Putney Vale, was convicted of child cruelty at Kingston Crown Court on Monday.

The 24-year-old nanny admitted five counts of cruelty against children dating back to February 12. A sixth charge against her was dropped.

The abuse included throwing one child to the floor and then kicking him, slapping both youngsters and biting one's face. Neither child required medical attention.

Lawrence had been working in Mortlake for two families - who cannot be named for legal reasons - who had decided to take part in a nanny share agreement. Her job involved looking after two toddlers - both under the age of three.

A police spokesman told the News the parents became suspicious after seeing marks on their children.

She said that in a bid to catch Lawrence in the act, one of the parents placed covert video cameras in the lounge of their home and captured the abuse on film.

When they found the horrifying footage of the nanny's cruel attacks, the families passed the video straight to the police.

An elderly neighbour of Lawrence, who declined to be named, said: "I'm shocked she did those things but I don't really know her. That place is rented out so there are always different people living there."

A spokesman for the Professional Association of Nursery Nurses said people should always try and get a nanny from a reputable firm or make sure they know the person.

They added: "It is ridiculous that nannies do not have to be on any kind of register. We have been lobbying for years for a national register of all childcare workers and if there was one it would help to prevent these kinds of things happening."

Sentencing was adjourned until December 21 for reports.

November 30, 2001 14:31