A FAMILY have made a desperate appeal for news of their teenage daughter who walked out of their home 10 days ago.

Rachel Golden, a 13-year-old student at Tonbridge Grammar School, disappeared from her East Sussex home on August 1 and could now be anywhere in the South East according to detectives.

Described as bright, talented and resourceful, police believe that Rachel, who has run away from her home twice before, may not want to be found.

Detectives consider the schoolgirl to be vulnerable because of her age and are urging members of the public to help trace her whereabouts.

Speaking on Wednesday, parents Elizabeth and Michael Golden of Jarvis Brook, Crowborough, pleaded for Rachel saying they just want to know she is safe.

Addressing her daughter, Mrs Golden said: "You are not in any trouble, we just need to know you are okay. We want you to come on holiday with us on Saturday so much, please get in touch."

Mr Golden echoed the appeal, saying: "We really, really miss you."

Det Insp Colin Dowle of Sussex Police, who is leading the search for Rachel, said her whereabouts is unknown although there had been a possible sighting of her in Brighton.

Police are following this lead although it is possible Rachel could have travelled by train to Tunbridge Wells, London or elsewhere in the South East.

Also known as Iona, Rachel is described as 5ft 4in tall, of solid build, with brown eyes and long straight brown hair sometimes worn in a ponytail. She wears three earrings in her left ear, two in her right and a silver chain.

Rachel was wearing her usual Goth gear when she went missing, including a black 'hoodie' top with 'Slipknot' written on it. She was also wearing blue jeans and brown trainers. Rachel had a black rucksack with pop band 'Him' and 'Cradle of Filth' stickers.

It is thought she only had £40 in cash with her.

Anyone with information should contact Sussex Police on 0845 6070999.