DETECTIVES leading the hunt for a missing Blackpool schoolgirl have released a picture of jeans identical to those she was wearing when last seen more than eight weeks ago.

More than 30 officers are working night and day on the investigation into 14-year-old Charlene Downes' disappearance on November 1, last year.

They are said to be growing "increasingly concerned" for the youngster's safety and hope the image, featuring a pair of black jeans with a gold eagle motif on the front, may help to jog witnesses' memories.

Leading the investigation, Detective Superintendent Paul Buschini said: "Our concern for Charlene increases by the day as it is totally out of character for her to stay away from home this long.

"Despite numerous police enquiries we have yet to have any confirmed sightings of Charlene since the day she disappeared. Officers have visited friends in Oldham, Denton and Wolverhampton and we have been assisted by the National Missing Persons Helpline throughout.

"I would appeal to Charlene to come home so that her family can be reunited at this special time. I understand the distress they are going through and we will continue to do everything we can to support them."

Charlene vanished from her Buchanan Street home in Blackpool which she shared with parents Karen and Robert, sister Becky, and grandmother Jessie.

Her family can think of no reason why she would stay away intentionally.

Charlene's mum, Karen, said: "I can't understand why Charlene has not been in touch.

"The pain is unbearable, it's breaking my heart not knowing where she is.

"If Charlene reads or hears my appeal I want her to know how much I miss and love her. She just has to pick up the phone and let us know that she is safe."

Dad, Robert said: "The stress of not knowing where our beloved daughter is or whether she is in any danger is becoming unbearable. Every day brings fresh hope that the police will have good news for us or that Charlene will contact us.

"But as each day passes our fears for her safety grow."

Charlene is described as 5ft 1in tall, of slim build with straight shoulder-length dark brown hair and blue eyes.

When last seen she was wearing a black jumper with white diamonds, black jeans with gold eagles on the front and black boots.

Anyone with any information about Charlene is asked to contact Blackpool Police on 293933 or the national Missing Persons Helpline on 0500 700 700.