A SCHOOLBOY whose disappearance sparked a wide-scale hunt was reunited with his family last night (Wednesday) after handing himself in to a French policeman.

Lancaster teenager Jamie Gleave went missing on Monday, taking his passport and cash with him.

The 14-year-old, pictured, left his Kenilworth Place home that morning wearing a fleece and jeans rather than his school uniform, telling his mum Claire it was a charity own clothes day.

But he told friends over the weekend he intended to head to France - and they raised the alarm when he failed to arrive at Central Lancaster High School.

Jamie sent text messages during Monday, reporting his progress as he travelled south.

Ports were alerted to his disappearance and possible bid to cross the Channel, while police officers spoke to Jamie's friends to try to learn more.

The teenager's anxious parents also issued an appeal for Jamie to make contact, stressing he was not in any trouble but they wanted to know he was safe.

Some time later, the youngster landed in Paris.

It is not yet known when he arrived, or how he got there, but police and family liaison officers hope to talk to him about the escapade.

Jamie's parents learned their son had turned himself over to the French authorities on Tuesday evening, and his mum was able to talk to him on the phone.

Peter Lovett-Horn, of Lancashire Constabulary, says: "He turned up in Paris. He gave himself in early Tuesday night to a French policeman.

"He had intimated to friends he might go to France as he had been there on a school trip and rather liked it."

It is understood Jamie was kept in the care of the French social services until his dad Brent flew out to Paris yesterday.

After a reunion, they were due to fly to Manchester last night.

Family liaison officer PC Michelle Barras told the Citizen: "Jamie's mum was delighted when we were able to tell her he had turned up safe in Paris, and when we spoke to Jamie he just wanted to come home.

"At this stage we don't know why he went missing but we do know he is glad it is all over. Now I am sure he will have plenty to talk about when he gets home."