A Brighton school today joined pleas to help find a 12-year-old girl who has been missing for days.

Margaret Echel-Thomson has not been seen since Wednesday and her family and police are concerned for her safety.

Today, Brian Orrells, deputy head of Dorothy Stringer School where Margaret studies, urged her to get in touch.

He said: "All her friends and teachers are anxious. Margaret is a nice girl, friendly, outgoing and well liked.

"She is an exceptional athlete and represents the school in many sports, including hockey."

Margaret, who lives with relatives in Preston Park Avenue, had domestic problems before she left.

Sergeant Steve Curry, of Brighton police, said: "Whatever the difficulties are, they will be resolved. Her family is extremely worried and all everyone wants is for Margaret to be home and safe.

"She is only 12 and we consider her extremely vulnerable."

An Argus appeal earlier this week generated calls to the police.

Margaret has been seen in the centre of the city and one report suggested she was pretending to be 17.

Margaret was wearing a black skirt, white shirt and trainers.

Anyone with information should contact Brighton police on 0845 6070999.