AIRPORTS and ports were on alert today after a four year-old Chorley girl disappeared with her French father following a day trip.

Marceline Jeannin was due back at her mother's house on Tuesday night.

Police said they believe Marceline is still in the North West in the company of Gabriel Jeannin, 27.

All airports and ports have been put on alert with descriptions of father and daughter.

Marceline's British mother, who is believed to be estranged from the child's father, was today awaiting news with family and friends at her home in Chorley.

Marceline is 3ft tall, slim, with brown eyes, and shoulder length brown hair.

Her father is 5ft 8in tall, olive skinned, of medium build, with brown eyes and black hair.

Chorley MP Lindsay Hoyle appealed to Mr Jeannin to bring the child back and for anyone with any information about her whereabouts to contact the police.

He said: "Obviously I am very shocked. My concern goes out to the mother.

"You don't really expect this to happen in your area and I can only guess at the distress it is causing her.

"I appeal to the father to bring the child back at once. He must appreciate the upset he is causing.

"I also appeal to anybody who knows anything about the whereabouts of the child to contact the police.

"I urge the general public to keep their eyes peeled and if they see or hear anything to contact the authorities.

"I am very concerned and I am obviously hoping for a quick, happy and speedy conclusion to this distressing affair."

A spokesman said: "Concern is now growing for the welfare of Marceline.

"We would ask anyone with information to contact Chorley police."

The number is 01257 269021.