The sister of a missing woman last night pleaded with her to get in touch.

Gina Newbold, from Lancing, said: "Please please call - we want to know you are safe."

Julie Nicholls, of Downland Drive, Hove, was last seen by her ex-partner and daughter at 11am on Friday. She was reported missing to the police the following day by a close friend.

Inspector Julie Wakeford said: "As the days pass, we are becoming more concerned for Julie's welfare. She has left her purse and handbag at home and, as far as we are aware, has no money on her.

"It is unusual that she has not been in contact with any of her family or friends.

"Everyone is desperate to know she is safe and well.

"We believe Julie has some contacts in the Eastbourne area but her family do not know who these people are. It is possible she may be in that area or possibly still in the Brighton and Hove area. We really have no clues as to where she has gone.

"If anyone has seen Julie or knows where she may be, please contact Sussex Police immediately on 0845 60 70 999."

Miss Nicholls is 5ft 7in and of medium build with shoulderlength blonde hair.

She was wearing a black V-neck top with a diamante bow-tie motif on the left hand side, blue jeans, tan-coloured ankle boots and a black waistlength button down coat.

She is arthritic and sometimes uses a walking stick. This has been left at home.