A MAJOR search was launched today for two 13-year-old girls who have been missing from home for almost a week.

Fears were growing for the safety of Linda Tulejova of Firs Lane, Leigh, and her cousin Theresa, of West Street, Higher Ince, Wigan, who were last seen at Linda's home last Wednesday.

The girls, who are both Czechoslovakian, speak little English.

Police said today they were concerned for the safety of the girls who have only lived in the area for a short time.

The reasons surrounding their disappearance are not yet known.

But one theory is that they have run away to visit Czechoslovakian friends in Manchester.

Insp Mike Sheard, of Leigh Police, said: "We are extremely concerned for the welfare of Linda and Theresa.

"They have only been in the area for the last few months and therefore speak very little English.

"They are also very vulnerable because of their age and they are not particularly familiar with the area.

"We believe that the girls will still be together but no-one has seen them since last Wednesday."

Linda is 5ft 5ins tall, slim, with long black hair.

She was last seen wearing a blue hooded jacket and blue jeans. Theresa is described as 5ft 8ins tall, slim with brown eyes and long black hair. She was last seen wearing a white long sleeved top with blue jeans.

Insp Sheard added: "The girls may have travelled to Openshaw, Gorton or Stockport as they know other Czechoslovakian families who live in those areas."

Anyone with information should contact Leigh Police on 0161 856 7229.