The detective leading the hunt for missing Shafilea Ahmed said today his squad were heading back to Bradford as the inquiry continues.

Detective Chief Inspector Geraint Jones said her extended family in the city could hold the clues as to her whereabouts.

They will be speaking particularly to her cousins who are about the same age as Shafilea.

The 17-year-old, born in Girlington but now living in Warrington, has been missing since September.

Police have said they fear she may be dead.

Det Ch Insp Jones, said: "There are some family links with Bradford although not strong ones.

"Somebody might know something. If she is being supported then Bradford would be a good place.

"She could slip into the community there and not be noticed."

He said since the televised appeal by Coronation Street star Shobna Gulati there had been reported sightings of the teenager but none had proved positive.

He added: "The inquiry is continuing. We are looking at all the places she may be - and there are many."

There are concerns for her as she was ill before she vanished, having swallowed bleach during a trip to Pakistan where she was meeting a suitor for an arranged marriage.

She had been taking medication for her throat condition which gives rise for concern.

Actress Shobna Gulati - Sunita in the TV soap - read poems written by the girl about honour and feeling trapped at a recent press conference to boost the inquiry.

Det Ch Insp Jones added: "We have already spoken to all her family in Bradford but we need to come back for extra information although we accept Shafilea did not have a lot to do with her family."

l Anyone with information is asked to contact Warrington CID on (01244) 613836.