A MOTHER who abandoned her baby on the driveway of her sister's Hampshire home has returned after a public appeal by police and her family.

Alison Wright, 33, contacted her sister during the night and then came back to her home on Winchester Road. Police believe she spent yesterday in the New Forest.

She had left her daughter Mary, aged 11 months, in a seat outside the Bishop's Waltham house having called her sister Nicola Steele, asking her to look after the baby.

Mrs Steele and her husband Kevin were so worried about Ms Wright, a solicitor, they called police and attended a press conference yesterday with police to appeal for her to get in touch.

They feared she was suffering from post-natal depression when she left Mary with toiletries and clothing before disappearing.

Nurse Mrs Steele said today: "We're so relieved Alison is back again and that she is safe and well.

"I haven't had time to speak to her yet and the police have been talking to her. It's all been very traumatic.

"But at least Alison and Mary can be reunited. We'll sit down and find out what happened and what needs to be sorted out. We'll do everything to support and help her through a difficult time.''

She said her sister appeared to be happy when she left their home with Mary on Sunday, but returned on Monday morning to leave her baby and had watched Mrs Steel pick up the baby before driving off.

Inspector Shaun Moore, of Meon Valley police, led the search of the Bishop's Waltham area, before widening the inquiry.

He confirmed Ms Wright was safe and well.

A police officer interviewed her about her disappearance at her sister's home.