Happy Brewer with the Find my Child app

Concerned parent or guardian can send out an alert which will informs passers-by there is a missing child in the area

A Willesden man is aiming to ease the panic of parents by launching a smart phone app designed to enlist the public’s help when a child goes missing.

Happy Brewer, of Chambers Lane, has created “Find My Child”, an iphone app to help find children who become separated from carers.

Using the app, a concerned parent or guardian can send out an alert which will informs passers-by there is a missing child in the area.

Mr Brewer, who created the app with two friends, said: “Every parent has been in that situation before when a child goes missing and a blind panic ensues. It’s the worst feeling in the world.

“But in reality, they are often not very far away at all and in many cases are found before police arrive on the scene.”

When a child is reported missing a photo of them, along with a description and a compass detailing their last location, will be sent to anyone within a four-kilometre radius and who has downloaded the app.

If they spot the child they can then press a button to be connected directly to the parent.

Mr Brewer said: “It’s great for the average resident because it gives them the chance to become a hero instantly for no cost at all.

“Help is literally in your own hand, there is nothing to lose from signing up to it and you could make a concerned parent very happy.”

The app, which is voiced by radio and television presenter Mariella Frostrup, is free to receive alerts from and costs 69p per year for a parent to subscribe to.

Speaking about the app, Ms Frostrup said: “As a parent I know that if I lost sight of one of my children I would want as much help as I could get and fast.

“Find My Child does exactly this and that’s why I voiced the alerts.”

The app, which is currently only provided for the iphone, is available to download from the app store now.

n Find my Child has teamed up with the Brent and Kilburn Times to allow parents or guardians exclusive free access for one year.

To activate your subscription download the app from the app store and go to www.findmychild.co.uk and type in the code fmcfree2012