Parents and their newborn are missing after their car broke down on the M61 sparking a police appeal.

Constance Marten and Mark Gordon went missing with the baby, after their vehicle broke down near junction four, Farnworth, Bolton of the M61 at 6.30pm.

Read more: M61 re-opened after fire but police continue search for driver

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

Mark was wearing dark clothing and Constance, who has a southern accent, was wearing a burgundy coat.

Officers say that the evidence suggests Constance had very recently given birth and neither she or the baby have been assessed by medical professionals and the newborn was swaddled.

GMP Head of Public Protection Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr 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.

“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.”

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police via 999 quoting 2657 05/01/21. GMP can also be contacted via gmp.police.uk.

Information can also be shared anonymously via the independent charity – Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police were called to the M61 near Bolton last night after reports of a vehicle fire.

Lanes were reopened before police ordered the motorway to be shut again.

This morning police confirmed the closure was do with a concern for welfare.

Firefighters were on the scene for an hour tackling the car fire.