Police searching lake and surrounding area at Blue Lagoon in Milton Keynes after reported sighting of missing Leah Croucher's jumper

The search, which is expected to last days, follows information received from a member of the public who has described seeing an item of clothing in that location - a grey hooded top that police believe may be linked to Leah.

More: Pictures from the scene as specialist diving team is called to Milton Keynes to assist police with search relating to missing Leah Croucher

The search is being carried out by specialist police search officers supported by an underwater search team from Specialist Group International.

The activity is expected to take a number of days and members of the public can expect to see a police presence in the area during this time.

Leah’s family has been informed of the search activity and continue to be supported by dedicated family liaison officers.

Leah was last seen in Buzzacott Lane in Furzton, just after 8.15am on Friday 15 February this year. She was walking in the direction of Loxbeare Drive and Chaffron Way.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Superintendent Andy Howard, said: “We are continuing to appeal for information regarding Leah’s movements and whereabouts on 14th and 15th February.

“I would like to remind people of the distinctive grey ‘Stewartby’ taekwondo hoody with a colourful logo that Leah was wearing at the time she went missing.

“This search activity is in response to a specific piece of information and could take up to 10 days to complete.

“I would request that the privacy of Leah’s family is continued to be respected at this time.

“The Blue Lagoon is a popular public area and if anybody has any information that they believe may be relevant to Leah’s disappearance they will be able to speak to police officers in the area over the coming days.

“Anyone who believes they have information that could assist us is asked to contact Thames Valley Police by calling 101 and quoting reference 43190049929 or Operation Dawlish.

“Alternatively, information relating to the investigation can be left on the dedicated website.”