Update: Police renew appeal for help in tracing 12-year-old Tia Sharp missing in New Addington

POLICE have reiterated their appeal for help in tracing a 12-year-old girl who has gone missing in New Addington.

Tia Sharp was last seen leaving her grandmother's house in New Addington at around midday on Friday.

The schoolgirl said she was going to the Whitgift Centre but has not been seen since.

DCI Robin Bhairam, who is leading the investigation, said: "It will soon be 36 hours since Tia was last seen, and still we have no news on her whereabouts.

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"As we head into another day of searching, I reiterate our appeals for anyone who may have seen Tia, or has information about her, to come forward.

"Of course if Tia herself is able to contact her family or the police, we urge her to do so. Her family are very concerned as it is wholly out of character for Tia to go missing."

More than 200 people joined the search for Tia this evening, handing out flyers door to door and looking in areas in and around New Addington.

Tia, who lives in Pollards Hill, Merton, is described as white, slim build, 4ft 5 in height and wearing glasses.

The clothing she was last seen wearing is described as a yellow bandeau top over a white bra with visible cross straps, light grey leopard skinned leggings and black and pink Nike high top trainers.

Police have said it is totally out of character for Tia to go missing. They believe she had a small amount of cash with her but no Oyster card and she did not have her mobile phone.

Tia is known to frequent Croydon, Mitcham and Wimbledon.

A group on Facebook, Help Find Tia, has more than 2,300 members.

Jasmine Hart tweeted: "Hey guys I really need your help! My 12 year old niece called Tia Sharp has been missing for over 24 hours. She was last seen yesterday in New Addington, Croydon wearing a yellow t-shirt and glasses.

"She's very smart and old enough to know how to get around and was given money to buy shoes. It is unlikely that she ran away as it is completely out of character which is why this has become so serious If you see her or know something, call the police immediately. Please help!"

Anyone who has seen Tia or knows of her whereabouts should call Merton Police on 101 quoting reference 12MIS025216.