The Sun has launched a £25,000 reward to help find missing schoolgirl Tia Sharp.

The 12-year-old has not been seen since leaving her grandmother Christine Sharp's home in New Addington at around midday on Friday.

The Sun's reports that when David Niles, the 29-year-old boyfriend of Tia's mother Natalie, was told of the appeal he said: 'If you want to do that, it's very much appreciated. I'd love you to do that.'

Tia's grandmother Angie Niles told the paper: 'I hope your offer of a reward will work. If anybody can tell me any information, I'll be so grateful. I can't believe this is happening.'

DCI Nick Scola, who is leading the hunt to find Tia, said: 'We are very grateful for any support. Our focus is on finding Tia. We support The Sun's appeal. Anyone with information should come forward to police.'

The Sun's offer of a £25,000 reward is for information which directly results in police safely finding Tia. In the event of more than one person offering such information the reward will be divided.