A huge search was launched for two young East Sussex girls who disappeared overnight.

Thirty officers were drafted in at 9pm yesterday after the families of the youngsters, aged ten and 12, were unable to trace them in Fairlight, near Hastings.

Detectives, the police helicopter, sniffer dogs and an underwater search team were called in.

The hunt continued throughout the night. The 12-year-old was found in Fairlight at 7.30am today and the other youngster in a nearby field half hour later.

Both girls, who were friends, will be interviewed later today by specially-trained officers but a police spokesman said there was nothing sinister about their disappearance.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Fowler said: "We are very relieved that the girls have been found.

"It has been a very worrying night for the families and all officers involved in searching for the youngsters."