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'We still pray that Charlenewill come home'
KAREN Downes sheds a tear as she wraps up daughter, Charlene's, Christmas presents.
For the first time since the 14-year-old was born, she is facing Christmas without her.
Charlene has been missing from Buchanan Street home in Blackpool for more than six weeks and has not been in contact with her family or friends.
Police are frantically searching for the teenager and admit they are becoming increasingly worried for her safety.
Despite being told to prepare for the worst, Charlene's parents remain defiant, and say they will continue to pray she comes home.
Karen said: "She has done really well this Christmas, we have bought her all the things she really wanted.
"Now we are just waiting for her to walk through the door and spend Christmas with us.
"The thought of her doing that is the only thing that keeps us going. I have still have a few bits to buy for Charlene, I just hope she comes home to open them all."
Charlene went missing on November 1 and has not been seen since. Police have made enquiries in Greater Manchester and Wolverhampton in addition to Blackpool, which have proved fruitless.
Det Supt Paul Buschini, who is leading the search for Charlene, said: "The family of Charlene cannot bear the thought of spending Christmas without her.
"Our concerns for Charlene increase by the day as it is totally out of character for her to stay away from home for so long. Despite numerous enquiries we are yet to have a confirmed sighting of Charlene since she disappeared.
"We understand the distress that her family are going through at the moment, and can only hope she returns home for this most special time of the year."
Charlene is 5ft 1in and has straight shoulder length brown hair. She was last seen wearing a black jumper with white diamonds, black jeans with gold eagles on the front and black boots.
• Have you seen Charlene? Call Blackpool Police on (01253) 293933 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
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Weather for Blackpool
Monday 13 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
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Wind direction: West
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