Child rescue alert system starts

The scheme is already in operation in the south east

A police system which uses the media to notify the public of a missing child is being started in the West Midlands.

Child Rescue Alert means an alarm message will be sent to the media telling the public how they can help to find the child.

West Midlands, West Mercia, Staffordshire and Warwickshire police forces are working together on the scheme which is used in the US.

Television and radio programmes will be interupted to carry the alerts.

They will describe the potential offender, the child, any vehicle involved and the location of the incident.

We hope the public will act as the eyes and ears for us in the community Howard Topping, acting assistant chief constable of West Mercia Police

Howard Topping, acting assistant chief constable of West Mercia Police said: "The scheme is based on an agreement by the media to interrupt local radio and TV programmes with a regular "news flash".

"Newspapers can also help by distributing appeals via their websites. The speed at which police forces respond is crucial.

"We hope the public will act as the eyes and ears for us in the community.

"We obviously hope we never have to use Child Rescue Alert but it's reassuring to know that it's available if we need it."

The scheme has already been introduced in several other areas of England.

A police force may issue an alert if the child is under 18 or considered vulnerable, he or she is believed to be imminent danger and sufficient information is available to enable the public to assist police.