UPDATED: A police spokesman said Alessia had been found safe and well in York this afternoon.

POLICE are trying to trace a teenage girl who disappeared from her home earlier this week.

Dilka Alessia Batepola Arachchige, 16, has not been seen since leaving her home address on Lilbourne Drive, in Rawcliffe, York, at 8am on Monday, August 4.

Known as Alessia, she is described as Asian, 5ft 4in tall, with very long black straight hair, dark brown eyes and a fresh complexion. It is not known what she was wearing at the time, but it is believed she will have a green bumbag with her.

Police say her disappearance is out of character for her and are appealing to the public for help in tracing her.

PC Ian O'Grady said: “Alessia, if you see or hear this appeal, please get in touch straight away as your family are worried about you and want to know that you are safe and well.

“If you would prefer to speak to a police officer, please contact us and will reassure your family about your welfare.”

He added: “I am also asking anyone who sees Alessia to get in touch with the police straight away.”

Contact North Yorkshire Police on 101, select option one and pass the details to the force control room.