The mother of kidnapped toddler Daniel Grimshaw has traded goodwill gifts and messages of hope with the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir.

Detectives investigating the abduction have just returned from a visit to Pakistan - where it is believed the youngster's estranged father is living.

While they were there the delegation handed over a letter and small gift to Prime Minister Sultan Mahmood Choudry from Daniel's mum, Amy Grimshaw.

The leader was said to have been touched by the message and returned the gesture by sending the 18-year-old a traditional head scarf.

Miss Grimshaw said: "I wrote him a letter explaining what had happened and how much we all love and miss Daniel. I wasn't expecting a reply. It is a lovely gesture. It shows that he is supporting us in our search for Dan."

The 18-year-old says she has not given up hope of getting the youngster back in time for Christmas.

"I've got to have hope. I need to be strong for Daniel's sake. What use will I be to him when he comes home if I let myself become an emotional wreck?"

The toddler was snatched from his pushchair six weeks ago as the pair walked home from a Christmas shopping trip.

Six Bradford men were arrested last month and charged with Daniel's kidnapping.

His estranged father, Murzhar Mahmood, has been missing from his Eccleshill home since the abduction on November 9 and is believed to be in Pakistan.

A witness who has seen Mr Mahmood in the country since the kidnapping has returned to Britain. There have been no sightings of Daniel.

Detective Chief Superintendent Stuart Hyde said: "The police in Bradford have built up strong links with the police in Pakistan. Officers from Azad Kashmir will be visiting Bradford in January, when we hope to continue our inquiries.

"Daniel's mother has shown tremendous strength and courage. The child needs to be with his mother."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the incident room at Eccleshill Police station on Bradford 376059. If you do not want to contact the police, call the Telegraph & Argus newsdesk on 01274 705400.

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