Essex Police are pleading for the public's help to find a missing 16-year-old in Southend. 

Alisha Coulson was last seen in Southend shortly after 5.30pm today but has not been seen since. 

Essex Police are concerned for her welfare and are now asking for the public's help to find her. 

Searches have been carried out across the city centre already this evening. 

Anyone who has seen Alisha is being urged to contact police as soon as possible. 

A police spokesman said: "We’re working hard to find Alisha Coulson who’s missing in Southend.

"The 16-year-old, pictured, was reported missing to us shortly after 5.30pm tonight, Saturday 12 October.

"We’ve been working hard to find her across the city centre.

"We're concerned for her welfare and we’re now asking for the public’s help.

"If you see Alisha or if you know where she is, please call us immediately on 101."