CONCERN is mounting for a mother-of-seven who has not been seen by her family since leaving home last weekend.

Jacqueline Seed, 39, is understood to have been upset recently and taking medication for depression.

She left the family home, in Eden Hill Road, Peterlee, County Durham, with a suitcase, on Saturday, October 6, between 6pm and 7pm.

Mrs Seed took a bank cash card, which has not been used since last Saturday.

Police said inquiries are concentrating on the fact she has been in recent correspondence over the Internet with a man from Portsmouth.

Sergeant Steve Harvey, of Peterlee Police, said: "We don't know why she was upset on the Saturday, but clearly something has affected her quite badly.

"It is rather worrying she has not been in contact with any members of her family. We would like her to ring to confirm she is fit and well.

"If she doesn't want anyone to know where she is, Mrs Seed can call us and speak to us in confidence," he said.

Mrs Seed is described as 5ft 4in, with green eyes, blonde hair, and usually has three gold loop earrings in each ear.

When last seen, she was wearing a blue denim jacket and white blouse, black trousers and black sandals.

Anyone with information about her whereabouts can ring police in Peterlee, on 0191-586 2621.