POLICE have appealed for help tracing teenager Charlie Smith – who has gone missing from Christchurch.

The 13-year-old was last seen at around 3pm on Thursday (October 3) in Beaufort Road, Bournemouth, and was last in contact with family at around 3.30pm.

At that time, Charlie is believed to have been in Christchurch.

Charlie is described as 5ft 1 inch tall and of slim build with shoulder-length black hair that is blond at the roots.

He was last seen wearing grey or black baggy jeans, black platform shoes with white shiny bats on and a blue baseball jacket with white sleeves.

Chief Inspector Matt Buller, of Dorset Police, said: “Charlie has not been in contact with family or friends since yesterday afternoon and we are growing increasingly concerned for his welfare.

“I would ask anyone who has seen Charlie or a teenager matching the description given to please get in touch.

“Charlie – if you see this appeal, please contact us or your family as we all want to make sure you are safe and well.”

Anyone with information or knowledge as to Charlie’s whereabouts should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk, or by calling 101, quoting incident number 55240152578.