The family of a special needs teacher who vanished five days ago today pleaded: "Please call us."

Concern is growing for the safety of Jane Longhurst, 31, who has not been seen since Friday.

Her mother Liz Longhurst said Jane's disappearance was completely out of character. She said: "I am very worried and upset."

Mrs Longhurst, who lives in Reading, urged her daughter: "Please let us know you are safe."

Colleagues and children at the school where Jane teaches music and English are also concerned.

Paul Atkins, head teacher of Uplands school in Lynchet Close, Hollingdean, Brighton, said: "We were all shocked when we heard the news and there was nothing we knew of to suggest something was wrong.

"Jane is highly-respected, very well liked, hard-working and conscientious."

Mr Atkins said staff were hoping not to upset the school's pupils, aged 11 to 16, but they were now preparing to let them know of her disappearance.

Jane disappeared from her home in Shaftesbury Road, Brighton, on Friday. She was reported missing at midnight the same day.

Her mother said she had no idea why her daughter had gone.

She said: "Her partner called me and he was in an awful state and in great distress. He wanted to know if Jane was with me.

"She has taken nothing with her and the nights are very cold."

Sue Barnett, Miss Longhurst's older sister, said: "Jane doesn't do this sort of thing. She is a professional and very loyal person, loyal to her friends and work colleagues."

She tried calling Miss Longhurst's mobile phone but it has been switched off. Miss Barnett said: "If you read this Jane, please call."

Miss Longhurst's flat has been searched by police but there were no signs suggesting anything untoward had happened.

Miss Longhurst, who plays the viola, was due to perform in a concert this Saturday with the musicians of All Saints' Church in Lewes. She is also active with the Brighton Youth Orchestra.

A police spokesman said: "Her disappearance is baffling and we urgently need to speak to anyone who may know her whereabouts."

Miss Longhurst is white, 5ft 5in and weighs 10st. Anyone with information should call Brighton and Hove police on 0845 6070999.