POLICE investigating the death of an 18-month baby have been instructed to gather further information before prosecutors decide on any criminal charges.

The move was revealed as the inquest into the death of Jake McGeough, of Leicester Road, Blackburn, was adjourned for the fifth time, until May, to allow the evidence to be gathered.

Two nurses were suspended after the toddler's death at Liverpool's Alder Hey Hospital in July last year. Hospital bosses admitted negligence over his treatment.

Jake's mother Keira said: "I realise the investigation has to be thorough and will take some time, but I think it is taking too long. It has been nearly a year since he died now."

The CPS said no decision had been made regarding the two members of staff.

A spokesman added: "The case requires the police to obtain further evidence, which we have requested them to do.

"We will make decisions on the individuals concerned when all the evidence has been looked at."

Jake died in the hospital on July 8 2001, three days after being transferred with a suspected chest infection.

His parents, Keira McGeough and Wayne Knight, had taken the toddler to Queen's Park Hospital in Blackburn after growing concerned about his health.

His death prompted a major investigation involving Merseyside police and hospital bosses at Alder Hey.

A letter from solicitors Hill Dickinson, in Liverpool, acting on behalf of the hospital, said the administration of vecuronium to Jake on July 6 2001 was negligent and that "such negligence caused or substantially contributed to Jake's death". Vecuronium is used to relax patients before medical procedures.

A hospital spokesman said an internal inquiry was still continuing.

After the inquest Merseyside coroner Andre Rebello said the decision was made while more evidence was gathered.

He said: "The police have been advised by the Crown Prosecution Services to get extra evidence."

He added: "In light of this the inquest was adjourned until May, by which time we hope to have further information."