Search for missing mother and son

Shazia Imam and her son have not been seen for a week

Police are stepping up their search for an Asian mother and her six-month-old son who have been missing since last Friday night.

Shazia Imam, also known by the surnames Mahmood and Begum, has not been seen since she left her home in Swindon, Wiltshire, with her son Hassan Mahmood.

She told her husband she was going out and has not made contact since.

Police say they want to reassure her they have no intention of separating her from her son.

We are concerned for the welfare of both mother and baby and we need Shazia to get in touch to let us know they are all right Det Insp Debbie Waters

Ms Imam is believed to have connections in Birmingham, Blackburn, Bristol and London.

Acting Det Insp Debbie Waters said: "We are concerned for the welfare of both mother and baby and we need Shazia to get in touch to let us know they are all right.

"We would also like to speak to anyone who may have either seen the young mother and her baby during the last few days or has information as to where she is currently staying."

Ms Imam left home with a green Mothercare pushchair.

She is described as 5ft 4ins tall, of medium build, with long black hair and light brown marks on both cheeks below her eyes.

When she left her home in Manchester Road, Swindon, she was wearing light brown trousers and a light brown top.

Anyone with any information about her whereabouts should call Swindon Police on 01793 528111.