Couple with newborn baby go missing after car breaks down on M61 near Bolton

Police have launched an urgent appeal for information after a couple went missing with their newborn baby in Greater Manchester. Constance Marten and Mark Gordon, together with their new arrival, vanished after their vehicle broke down at junction four of the M61 at Farnworth in Bolton on Thursday night (5 January).

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) say the family left the vehicle and made their way safely away from the motorway, 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. The newborn was swaddled.

Police said on Friday afternoon (6 January) that evidence suggests Constance has very recently given birth and neither her or the baby have been assessed by medical professionals.

And on Sunday (8 January) the force said officers believe they have seen a sighting of Constance in a red shawl near to Harwich Port in Essex at around 9am on Saturday (7 January). There was then a final sighting shortly after10am in Colchester.

GMP have made a heartfelt appeal to Constance, saying the police’s top priority is the welfare of the baby and urging the couple to get in touch so both she and the newborn can be seen by health professionals. The public has also been urged to share any information on the couple’s whereabouts.

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. Even the most minor detail might help us keep this mum and baby safe.”

Anyone with information should contact Greater Manchester Police by ringing 999 , quoting number 2657 for the date 05/01/23. GMP can also be contacted via the website and information can be shared anonymously via the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.