By Emily Parsons

Last updated at 14:40, Wednesday, 30 January 2013

Homes have been searched around the UK, as the hunt for a missing Penrith mum continues.

Catalina Covaci and Ricardo

Officers entered homes in east Manchester yesterday morning, as they continue their hunt for Catalina Covaci and her seven-month-old son Ricardo.

The 15-year-old, who is originally from Romania but has lived in Cumbria for 18 months, has not been seen since she left her Penrith home on December 19.

She was spotted on CCTV with her young son at Penrith train station that morning, then again at Manchester Piccadilly station on the same day.

Police were seen searching at least two properties in Manchester yesterday, looking not just for the pair, but also for evidence such as clothing or documentation which might suggest they had been there.

It is understood the search has also spread to other cities in the UK and even as far afield as France. PC Karen Singleton, from Cumbria Police, said that as far as officers are aware Catalina has no money to look after herself or her son.

“We have got real grave concerns for her and her baby’s safety,” she added.

It is believed that Catalina may be with other members of the Romanian community, and could be “moving around frequently”.

She is described as having very long straight hair which is often worn in a bun.

She is of a medium-heavy build and has a dark complexion.

First published at 12:52, Wednesday, 30 January 2013
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk