POLICE chiefs have praised the public after the safe return of two teenage Czech girls who had been missing from home for a week.

Linda Tulejova, aged 13, from Firs Lane, Leigh and her cousin Theresa, aged 14, of Higher Ince, Wigan, were found safe and well on Wednesday evening after a major police search.

They were picked up at Wigan bus station following a call from a member of the public and told officers they had been to visit other Czech friends across Greater Manchester. Chief Insp Ian Palmer, of Leigh Police, said: "We are extremely happy to have been able to reunite the girls with their families who are understandably ecstatic.

"We would like to thank the members of the public who helped with this enquiry.

"We received more than 50 calls which provided us with a lot of valuable information. Many people often hold back on ringing because they do not think their information is valuable."

"I can assure you that every call is appreciated however insignificant it may seem.

"We are satisfied that the girls went missing of their own accord and no further enquiries have been launched."