FEARS for the safety of a missing toddler triggered a major search as a police helicopter and officers on the ground scoured Morecambe.

Complete strangers joined the hunt after hearing loudspeaker appeals for sightings of little Lois Kennedy, who had 'disappeared' from home.

But more than an hour later the search was called off.

The three-year-old, pictured, was found asleep behind the sofa, where she had been throughout the drama.

Mum Roseleen said she reported Lois missing at 7.10pm last Thursday after she had not seen her for a 'worrying' length of time.

Scores of officers descended on the town centre and areas around Morecambe Football Club.

Sgt Shaun McKirgan said: "A full scale search operation was launched to find the missing girl, which involved the force helicopter and officers.

"There was a detailed search of the area surrounding the house and further afield."

Police say the search was called off when Lois was found at 8.20pm asleep behind the sofa.

Afterwards Roseleen told the Citizen: "I felt a bit stupid that she was indoors the whole time.

"But three police officers searched the house six times and pulled the sofa out but didn't see her.

"I am overwhelmed at how people reacted. All my neighbours were brilliant. Everyone was out looking and I can't fault the police. They were there for me when I needed them.

"Lois doesn't wander. I was really convinced someone had taken her."