The search is on for a 16-year-old girl who has gone missing from her North-East home.

Police are anxious to trace Kirsty Holland, who is known to frequent Washington, Sunderland and Newcastle.

She is described as 5ft 5in, of broad build, with brown, collar-length hair and freckles. When she disappeared she was wearing navy jogging trousers and a burgundy Umbro sweatshirt, and carrying a black backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Washington police on 0191-454 7555.