A VULNERABLE schoolgirl has gone missing from the Dorchester area.

Thomas Hardye pupil Lyndsey Howie, 16, from Charminster, was last seen by her mother three days ago when she left home for school.

Police are appealing for anyone who has seen Lyndsey to come forward.

Her mother said Lyndsey sounded 'fine' when she telephoned on Tuesday lunchtime, but she never returned home that night.

She is described as white, five feet nine inches tall, slim, with mousey brown hair, an angled fringe and blue eyes.

Lyndsey, who is on medication, was wearing a black leather coat and had a small amount of cash with her.

She went missing in December last year, but three days later police found her in the market car park in Dorchester sleeping rough with travellers.

Sergeant Tony Eggleston, of Dorchester Police, said: "Both the police and Lyndsey's family are growing increasingly concerned for her safety.

"Any girl who has been missing from home for almost three days during cold nights is vulnerable and we do need to find her urgently. Lyndsey has been experiencing problems at school and is also on medication, which she has taken with her.

Anyone who has seen Lyndsey should call Dorset Police on 01305 222500 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.