4pm: Police search for missing teen

HOLLY KING: police search

A LARGE scale police search is underway for an Oldham teenager who was reported missing after failing to turn up for school today.

Fears are growing for Holly King (13) who left her home in Hollins Road, Hathershaw, at 7.15am but never arrived for lessons at Blue Coat School.

She was last seen by her sister leaving the house wearing a black jacket with fake fur hood, dark jeans and converse trainers.

It is believed the teenager, who normally gets the 409 bus to school, took no money or spare clothes.

The teenager, who is a fan of Doctor Who, is the youngest of three sisters and is described as a bright girl and a high achiever.

She has never gone missing before.

Police were first told she was missing when her distraught parents rang yesterday morning to say she hadn’t turned up at school.

Around 30 officers, including specially trained search teams, are searching the local area with the support of PCSO’s.

The police helicopter was scrambled and officers are looking at CCTV footage of Oldham and Ashton Town Centre as well as the area around Park Cakes.

Pupils at the Egerton St school were questioned by police and inquiries about Holly's mobile phone are being made.

Officers issued an urgent appeal in the hope someone might report seeing her.

Chief Inspector Rob Tinsley said: “This is really out of character for Holly.

“Her state of mind is causing some concern.

“She’s never been missing before and she is from a loving family.

“Her parents are distraught.”

He added: “We just want to get across that Holly is in no trouble whatsoever.

“Just get in touch with ourselves or your parents and just come home.”

Police Constable Cathy Watts from Oldham said: “Holly, if you are hearing or reading this, please just call us to say you are ok.

“We can talk to you about any worries you might have, you don’t have to cope with everything on your own.

"If you have seen Holly this morning, or might know where she is, please call us immediately."

Anyone with any information on Holly's whereabouts is asked to contact police on 0161 856 8951 or via the switchboard 0161 872 5050.