DETECTIVES have released an e-fit of the woman they say claimed to be a social worker and tried to abduct two babies.

The middle-aged woman called on two mothers 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, one mother in Stockton closed the door.

Even after the 33-year-old, from Stockton, shut the door in her face, the woman rang the doorbell five times.

Later in the day, police said a mother in Boosbeck, near Guisborough, east Cleveland, reported a similar incident. She also denied the woman access after she became suspicious.

Both incidents took place on Wednesday, February 9.

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

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

Detective Sergeant 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."

Anyone with information can call (01642) 302626 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.