Helicopter dispatched in search for missing 11 and 12-year-old schoolgirls

A massive search is underway for two young girls, Angelica and Verity, who are missing after disappearing around 4am in the Newbold area of Rugby.

Police currently believe that Angelica, 11, and Verity, 12, are together, but haven’t been able to find the two young girls since they disappeared on August 8.

They have links to both Rugby and Cornwall, but concern is growing, as police deployed a helicopter to aid their search.

Detective Chief Inspector Ruby Nailor said: ‘Rugby residents will have heard the police helicopter and seen a heavy police presence in key areas.

‘We’ve also been carrying out area searches, house-to-house enquiries and CCTV checks. Behind the scenes, detectives are also working on digital tracking. Our search will continue until Angelica and Verity are found, and I want to take this chance to thank the public for their vigilance.’

She said: ‘Lots of people are asking how they can help. We are asking that everyone takes a moment to look at the photos of Angelica and Verity below and call 999 if you see them.

‘We have officers on the ground searching, and they have special training.  Where there are opportunities to help, we will advise through our social media channels.’

The girls disappeared on August 8, but were last spotted around 4am on Sunday, August 9.

Officer Naylor added: ‘At this stage, whilst we thank everyone for keeping a lookout, we would ask that people please do not attempt to organise searches themselves.

‘We have officers on the ground searching, and they have special training. Where there are opportunities to help, we will advise through our social media channels.’