Three missing SEND children found safe after huge police search at Rivington

Three children with special needs have been found after going missing in Rivington for more than 12 hours.

A huge police search was launched yesterday afternoon after two girls, aged 12, and a 13-year-old boy, were reported missing at the rural Lancashire beauty spot.

The three children had last been seen in Rivington Lane at 2.20pm and are believed to have remained missing for more than 12 hours.

Lancashire Police issued a public appeal late last night, sharing pictures of the three children and their descriptions, and urging anyone who sees them to call 999.

The force said all three children may appear confused or act younger than their respective ages. It’s understood the children attended a SEND school in the area.

“We are really worried about them,” said a spokesperson for Lancashire Police at around 10.30pm, “and we have a number of officers currently out looking for them.”

The police helicopter was deployed to the area, while members of the public also joined the frantic search for the missing children.

At 6.30am this morning, Lancashire Police confirmed all three had been found ‘safe and well’.

The force said: “Last night we asked for your help to find 3 missing children from the Rivington area. We are pleased to confirm they have all been found safe and well. Thank you for your support.”

Lancashire Police said they will not be providing further details on the incident.