Concerns are growing for the welfare of a missing 12-year-old girl from Stevenage, last seen in the town yesterday – and police have now issued an urgent appeal to the public to help find her.

Isabella Shepherd was last seen in Lytton Way, near the railway station, at about 2.45pm yesterday.

She is described as a white girl, about 5ft 3in tall, with long dark hair. She was last seen wearing a black bomber jacket, a dark skirt and black tights.

Police say it is thought she may be with a 13-year-old boy, who is wearing a grey tracksuit, black coat and red and black trainers. He could be carrying a black bag.

A police spokesman said: “Officers are growing increasingly concerned for Isabella’s welfare and ask that anyone who sees her, or knows of her whereabouts, to contact us immediately.”

If you can help locate Isabella, call Herts police on 101.