Missing girl search scaled down

Ninety police were involved in the search on Dartmoor

Police officers and rescue teams in Devon have scaled down their search for a teenage girl seen in a distressed state just before she disappeared.

The search, involving 130 people, dogs and the police helicopter on Thursday, was centred on an area around the River Dart Country Park, near Ashburton.

The alarm was raised after a member of staff at the park saw the girl, who was thought to be aged about 14 or 15.

The helicopter was called in again on Friday for another sweep of the area.

'Credible report'

Ninety police officers, police dogs, the force helicopter and 40 members of Dartmoor Rescue Group took part in the search, after the alarm was raised at about 1330 GMT on Thursday.

Police are investigating reports she may have been blood-stained, but officers said on Friday that there may be an innocent explanation for the sighting.

Ch Insp Dave Sumner of Devon and Cornwall Police said: "It was a credible report and sufficient for us to respond promptly and conduct a thorough search."

Searchers were hampered by the extent of the woodland and steepness of the terrain.

The alarm was raised by a member of staff at the country park

Officers do not now believe there is anyone missing in the area for them to be concerned about, but are continuing their investigations, including carrying out door-to-door inquiries at nearby properties.

The force helicopter was involved again the search on Friday morning, checking woodlands where the girl was last seen, and tracing the route of the River Dart from Ashburton to Totnes.

Scene of crime officers were also examining the area where she was last spotted.

Ch Insp Sumner said: "We are also very keen to hear from anyone who can provide a genuine explanation for the sighting.

"If you know of a party happening in the area, or an event taking place around the time of the incident, contact the police."

The girl was described as having long blonde hair, wearing blue shorts, a white vest and light-coloured trainers.