POLICE are searching for a car which a “distressed” woman is believed to have got into in York.

The black Peugeot 206, registration number BV52 FLE, was seen in Bad Bargain Lane at about 9am today and drove off towards Ashley Park. A member of the public said they thought the woman who got into the car was distressed.

North Yorkshire Police said they wanted to check the woman was safe and well, but despite “extensive enquiries” today, the car and the people in it have not been found. A spokeswoman said: “It is possible there is an innocent explanation, but officers will not be satisfied until this is confirmed.”

The force has appealed for the occupants of the car and anybody who saw it today or knows where it is now to phone the force control room on 101, but they should phone 999 if they suddenly see the car.