MISSING Leona Peach from Newton Abbot has been found safe and well.

Following an extensive policing operation, the 12-year-old who was reported missing from Newton Abbot on the morning of Monday, December 20, has been located.

A police spokesperson said: ‘Aided by officers from Lincolnshire Police and with support from Devon Child Services and Lincolnshire Child Services, units attended and undertook a search of an address near Boston this afternoon and located Leona;

‘She will continue to be supported by specialist officers and child services.

‘During the search police have arrested a 34-year-old man, originally from Devon, on suspicion of child abduction and kidnap.

‘He is due to be transferred into police custody within Devon and Cornwall for questioning in due course.

‘Officers would like to thank the public for their support in helping us locate Ms Peach.’