THIS is the face of a bogus social worker who police say attempted to abduct two babies.

Detectives this week released the e-fit of the middle-aged woman who called on two mothers - one in Boosbeck, near Guisborough - and tried to take the children away.

She knew the name and date of birth of the youngsters but when she failed to produce identification, the second mother, in Stockton, closed the door. But even after the 33-year-old mum shut the door in her face, the woman rang the doorbell five times.

Later in the day, police said, the mother in Boosbeck reported a similar incident. She too, denied the woman access to her child after she became suspicious.

The Stockton mother, who asked not to be identified, said: "It is frightening, I am still shaking. She said she had come to remove my baby because it had been reported I was not looking after her properly. I knew that was not true, because I do."

She became suspicious when the caller could not show identification and did not know the baby's surname.

Both incidents took place on Wednesday, February 9.

The woman was about 40 years old, about 6ft, of medium-build with straight, shoulder-length black hair.

She wore a woollen hat, black three-quarter length coat, silver loop earrings and a black satchel-type bag. She may have been driving a small, dark, hatchback car.

Det Sgt John Green, of Redcar CID, said: "These incidents are notable due to their nature and the fact that the woman disclosed certain details about the children.

"These addresses may have been targeted deliberately and I would urge anyone with information to get in touch."

Anyone with information is asked to call (01642) 302626 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.