A SCHOOLBOY wanted for a string of burglaries has escaped from social workers twice in the space of a week and is believed to be on the run in the Accrington area.

Police today warned residents in the Blackburn Road area of the town to be on the look-out for the ''angel-faced'' thirteen-year-old.

The boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, was arrested on Monday June 26 and appeared before Hyndburn youth court the following day accused of a series of offences.

The arrest followed a public appeal for help in tracing the boy who was suspected of carrying out at least 14 thefts from homes, shops and businesses in Accrington including a burglary at St James's Parish Centre in the town centre. The youngster had his case adjourned and was remanded into the care of social services. But two days later he absconded from a social services hostel in Poulton-le-Fylde and made his way back to Accrington.

Police picked up the youngster in the rear yard of a house near Tremellen Street in the early hours of Monday and handed him back to social workers.

But the youngster managed to escape again several hours later and detectives believe he is back in the Accrington area.

Detective Sergeant Paul Elms, of Accrington CID, said: ''We have reason to believe that this boy is one of the most prolific young offenders in the Accrington area.

''We want to alert residents, shopkeepers and businesses in Accrington, particularly in the Blackburn Road area. People should be on the look-out for this boy and contact us immediately if they see him.''

The boy, although 13, is said to look around 11-years-old with an olive complexion, an ''angelic'' appearance and big eyes. He is about 5ft and has short cropped dark hair with a straight fringe.

Anyone who thinks they have seen him is asked to contact Accrington CID on 01254 382141.