A WOMAN whose family has been torn apart by tragedy is desperately searching for her younger brother who she hasn't seen for seven years.

Angela McLean, 44, from Parr, said the death of her mum nine years ago had a traumatic effect on her brother Kevin.

"As often happens when the mum dies, the family drifts. I had cancer at the same time and was trying to hide the fact.

"During that period my son had also been diagnosed with cancer and my dad died of the disease four years later.

"The family was absolutely distraught."

Angela's son, now 19, recovered fully but even though she has battled cancer twice, she admitted she expects it to come back again.

She suspects a misunderstanding with Kevin, proved to be the final straw; "It constantly prays on my mind. My mum had asked me to look after him and I feel so guilty."

Angela said his last known address was St Jude's Court in the town centre.

The last time she saw Kevin, who turned 29 on September 16, was at Shaw Street station as he was about to board the train for a job in Scotland.

The job didn't last long and Kevin, a former St Cuthbert's pupil moved back to St Helens.

"This haunts me all the time. He could have a wife and children now and I wouldn't know them."

lIf you can offer Angela any help contact Stephen Mather at The St Helens Star on 01744 611861.