The boyfriend of missing teenager Natasha Coombs was due to make a desperate appeal for her safe return today.

Natasha's parents and grandparents have already pleaded for any information on her whereabouts but, two weeks after she went missing, there has been no news or word from her.

Essex Police said Natasha's boyfriend would make a direct appeal at a press conference today.

Lauren Brown, a friend of Natasha, has also appealed for the missing teenager to come home.

The 17-year-old, of Brooklands Road, Brantham, went to East Bergholt High School with Natasha.

She said: "I just want to say that I can't believe what has happened to Tasha and if she's out there I just want to tell her to come home.

"I knew her from the village and we used to go out in the evening. Everybody knew her and got on well with her.

"She really liked going out and being with her friends. It's just awful this has happened to someone we know."

  • Anyone with information should ring police on 01255 221312.