TECHNOLOGY has been installed at a Runcorn shopping centre to enable lost youngsters to find their parents and convey information to the public in an instant.

Advertising units on columns have been set up around the car park at Trident Retail Park with information enabling families to find each other.

The multi-purpose system is based on America’s Amber Alert which uses motorway message boards to put out a range of information including details of missing children.

The system could also be used by police to issue crime prevention advice, and to advertise events and careers in childminding.

The LED message boards will also pay for themselves by carrying commercial advertising.