Body reported in London river

Amanda, left, has been missing for 14 days

Scotland Yard detectives are searching a river in London after two train passengers reported seeing a body floating in a river.

The Hogsmill river is in the Motspur Park area of south-west London, less than ten miles from where missing schoolgirl Amanda Dowler vanished.

The schoolgirl, known as Milly, was last seen at Walton-on-Thames train station on her way home from school on 21 March.

Police stressed that no body had been found and there was nothing to suggest any connection at this stage.

Amanda may have left with someone she knew

Officers were called to Wimbledon station in south west London at 1730 BST on Wednesday night after the passengers called the police.

Laura Cole, who lives near the river, said: "There are about 20 police officers and lots of police cars and vans.

"It's all sectioned off and there is lots of activity. They won't let you go near the river."

Police have also cordoned off a 30-metre stretch of woodland on the river's east bank.

Distressed girl

On Thursday police appealed for help in trying to trace a girl fitting Amanda's description seen on Rydens Road close to the teenager's home.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Gibson said: "The public may be able to help us confirm whether these are the last sightings of Milly or someone else."

The girl, who was seen by two motorists, was wearing a school uniform and looked distressed.

At a press conference on Wednesday Danielle Sykes, a friend of Amanda's, known as "Milly" appealed for her to come home.

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"I love you Milly and want you back with us," said the 14-year-old.

"Please get in contact with someone, I have my mobile on so any time soon please call.

"No-one is angry with you and we all just want you to return home."

Police investigating the disappearance have examined Milly's mobile phone and e-mail records in case she ran away with someone she met on the web.

Detectives say there was no evidence of a struggle and it is possible she may have left with someone she knew.