A FAMILY torn apart more than 30 years ago after the death of their mother are hoping readers will help them find the missing link in their quest to be reunited.

Five of the seven Smith children were uprooted from their home in Kay Street, Darwen, and put into Blackburn Orphanage in 1960.

As they grew up, most of the family lost contact. But the eldest children, Patricia Tedeschi and Annie Smith, and the youngest member of the family, Lorraine Knowles, stayed in Blackburn.

They have spent the last few years trying to trace their brothers and sisters.

Their research is now almost complete with only Jeannie Smith, who was nine when she went to the orphanage, still to be found. Patricia of Rosewood Avenue, Blackburn, said: "Trying to get us all back together for a reunion has brought happiness and also sadness. We discovered one of our brothers had died, which was a big shock.

"But, best of all, we finally met Joseph, who was only seven when we got split up. He visited us from his home in Russia last week. Our sister Freda has also been in touch from Australia."

The only information the family have on Jeannie is that she was known to be living in the Manchester area.

Annie of Monmouth Road, Whitebirk, Blackburn, added: "We have been to Manchester looking for her but haven't had any luck.

"There are no photographs or addresses to help us so it is very hard. We would love to hear from anybody who knows anything about her."

Anyone who can help should ring Patricia on 01254 610334.

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