FEARS are growing for the safety of a Clacton teenager who has been missing for more than three weeks.

Saffron Sandford, 15, vanished on April 13 but was only reported missing eight days later.

Police say they are becoming increasingly concerned for her safety.

The youngster has links to east London and the Leighton Buzzard area of Bedfordshire.

A police spokesman said: "We are appealing for help to find 15-year-old Saffron Sandford who went missing in Clacton on April 13.

"Officers received reports she was missing on April 21 and are growing increasingly concerned for her welfare."

Saffron is described as white, 5ft 4ins tall, and was last seen wearing blue jeggings, a green parka style jacket with a fur rimmed hood, white trainers and was carrying a large handbag. She has distinctive blue hair.

Anyone with information on her whereabouts should contact Clacton police on 101.