A KENT schoolgirl who was missing from home for 12 days is now back home safe and well with her parents.

Rachel Golden, a 13-year-old pupil at Tonbridge Grammar School, walked into a police station in London at the weekend. She vanished after walking out of her home in Crowborough, East Sussex, on August 1.

After making desperate appeals to the public for information, Rachel’s parents are now reported to be delighted to have her safely back at home.

Rachel had run away from home twice before but never for longer than 48 hours. Her parents had been especially concerned as she had left home with only £40 in cash.

Police followed leads across the South East during the search for the missing teenager, but believed it possible that Rachel had not wanted to be found.

Although she was described as bright, talented and resourceful, police had been concerned for her welfare due to her age.