Update: Sophie has been found safe and well.

Police are urgently appealing for help to find a missing 17-year-old girl with links to Preston.

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Police believe Sophie Wilson is in the Blackpool area and in the company of an older man, Steven Purkhardt, 38.

Sophie is missing from home in Nelson. In addition to Preston, she is known to have friends and family in the Nelson, Accrington and Blackpool areas.

Sophie is around 5ft 5in tall and has long blonde hair. She was last seen wearing a grey top and zip up hoodie.

Detective Chief Inspector Alisa Wilson, of West Police, said: “We believe Sophie is in Blackpool and that she is with Steven Purkhardt, a man considerably older than her.

“As time goes on we are growing increasingly worried about her and I would appeal for the public’s help in trying to find her and make sure she is safe.

“I would also ask that if Sophie or Steven see this appeal then they come forward and contact us.”

If you have seen Sophie or Steven or have any information about their whereabouts, contact Lancashire Police on 101 quoting reference 04/55085/21.

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