A PROBE into the disappearance of a dangerous child sex offender was launched today by the probation service.

Paedophile Michael Wilson,38, who has a history of offences against young boys in Lancashire, disappeared after boarding a train at Accrington Station at 3.15pm on Monday.

Wilson was escorted to the station in Blackburn Road by officers from Lancashire Probation Service after it was decided he was too dangerous to remain at Highfield House bail hostel in nearby Lydia Street.

He was supposed to make his way to Liverpool but never arrived and has not been seen since.

Lancashire's chief probation officer John Crawforth said: "We will be conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this case following Wilson's release on bail by the court and subsequent transfer to a hostel in Lancashire."

Home Secretary Jack Straw today called for a report into the incident to be compiled for the Home Office.

Police described Wilson as an "ultra high risk" offender and said there was "every likelihood" that he would carry out more sex crimes.

Anyone who sees Wilson should contact Merseyside Police on 0151 777 3452.

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