Chelmsford has become the first town centre in the UK to adopt the potentially life-saving Protectachild card scheme.

The identity card carries children's photographs and details.

If they become separated from accompanying adults, the children's parents or grandparents can hand the cards over to security staff and police for easy recognition.

Details on the cards can also be circulated through the town Link Radio system, saving vital minutes.

If the scheme proves successful in Chelmsford, it could be adopted by shopping centres nationwide to identify lost or abducted children.

Cards will be available at High Chelmer on Saturday and at the North Weald air show on Sunday.

The cards, which cost £2.50 each, are the brainchild of Andy and Angela Glynn, from Essex, who hit upon the idea after the horrific Jamie Bulger murder case.

Chelmsford town centre manager Cathy MacBride said: "I have been in situations where parents or grandparents are so distraught that they cannot remember height, hair colour or other information which we need to ensure that they are reunited as soon as possible.

"This simple card gives the information straight to the people who need it in seconds."

Riverside Ice and Leisure has given £500 sponsorship to the scheme.

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