A three-year-old boy who disappeared from a garden in Wilmslow has been found safe and well.

Lewis Palmer's disappearance from Oakdean Court at around 1pm today (July 27) sparked a big police hunt.

But shortly before 4pm, Cheshire Constabulary confirmed the youngster has been located.

The force, which had a helicopter searching for Lewis, said they were 'increasingly concerned' about his whereabouts and urged local residents to check their gardens and outbuildings.

Inspector Jez Taylor said: “We’re delighted to say Lewis has returned back to his home address.

“We’ve been really concerned for him.

“I’d like to thank all the public for being supportive this afternoon, and to all the officers and volunteers from Cheshire Search and Rescue.

“He’s traveled a good distance, he's gone further than would be expected.

“He certainly showed a great deal of initiative and found his own way back which we’re all delighted for."