POLICE believe that convicted paedophile Gerald Baker, who fled to France with his wife and abducted their baby son, carefully planned their escape.

Detective Inspector Andrew Bertie, who is leading the investigation, told the Argus the abduction was premeditated and concerns for the baby boy's welfare are growing.

The baby's father, Gerald Baker, aged 46 and from Brynmawr, has a string of convictions for sexual offences - the most recent in 1998 when he was jailed for sexually assaulting a six-year-old boy at a caravan park near Christchurch, Dorset.

He was living in Brynmawr following his release from prison in August 1999 after serving less than half his sentence.

As a registered sex offender, he must tell police if he leaves the country. The baby was in the care of Blaenau Gwent social services but his mother, Helene Baker, 37, did not return after a one-hour unsupervised visit with her son on Monday.

Police believe the couple left for France by ferry from Portsmouth to Cherbourg late on Monday night.

They found Mr Baker's car - a red Ford Orion - in Salisbury. DI Bertie said the couple bought another car, a blue Ford Sierra Estate, there and are thought to be still using that.

"We believe that this was planned, by Mr Baker anyway," said DI Bertie. "He certainly had enough money in his possession to buy the new vehicle.

"We are keeping an open mind but it certainly appears that this was prearranged."

He said that the couple could now be anywhere in Europe and that detectives were in contact with police on the continent and Interpol. "The emphasis is very much on the safety of this child. As time goes on, our concern grows," he said, appealing again for people heading on holiday to keep a look out for the couple.

Police do not know why the pair headed for France and are asking their friends, family and neighbours for any information that might help them. DI Bertie said there was concern about how the couple would manage financially abroad.

"We are continuing to talk with several port authorities and are keeping an open mind about ways they may try to get back into the country," he said. "They are not especially well off and they won't be receiving any benefits. "It may also be difficult for them to get casual work," he said.

A spokesman for P&O said the firm's ferries from Portsmouth held a maximum of 1,650 passengers, and all had CCTV.

If you have any information contact Ebbw Vale Police Station on 01495 350999.