LAURA Eland,15, who has been missing from her home address at Lea since July 20, is believed to have friends in Blackpool and Preston.

Described as a "streetwise" girl, Laura has previously spent short periods away from home, usually staying with friends. But police are now becoming concerned as she has not contacted her family to reassure them. It is believed that Laura could be staying with friends who may be completely unaware that she has been reported missing.

Laura is described as white, blue-eyed, of slim build, and 5ft 6ins tall. She has brown shoulder length straight hair and, when last seen, was wearing blue jeans and a grey hooded top.

Police and her family are appealing to Laura, or any of her friends who know of her whereabouts, to get in touch by phoning 01253 293933.