Greater Manchester police search for couple and newborn baby

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Police in Greater Manchester are searching for a couple and their newborn baby who went missing after their car broke down.

Constance Marten and Mark Gordon are missing with their baby after their vehicle broke down near junction 4 of the M61, near Farnworth, Bolton, on Thursday evening.

Marten is believed to have very recently given birth and neither she nor the baby have been assessed by medical professionals, according to Greater Manchester police (GMP).

The family left the vehicle and the motorway safely – walking to the Anchor Lane bridge, which links the Highfield and Little Hulton areas, GMP said.

Mark was wearing dark clothing and Constance, who has a southern accent, was wearing a burgundy coat. The newborn was “swaddled”, GMP said.

Ch Supt Michaela Kerr, GMP head of public protection, said: “As a mum, I would like to make a direct appeal to Constance. Constance, I know this is an exceptionally hard time for you and you are likely feeling scared but I promise that our number one priority is the same as yours – to keep your beautiful newborn safe.

“As you know, it’s really important that both you and your baby are assessed by medical professionals as soon as possible so please make contact with emergency services or make your way to your nearest hospital, wherever that may be.

The officer added: “I would also like to appeal to members of the public – not just in Bolton but across Greater Manchester and beyond. If you have any information about this family’s whereabouts, please do nothing more than contact emergency services. GMP can be contacted via Live Chat on our website or 999. Even the most minor detail might help us keep this mum and baby safe.”