Prayers have been said for missing nine-year-old Shannon Matthews as police continue their searches into her wherabouts and renewed their appeal for information.

The congregation at St James Church in Heckmondwike, near to Shannon's home, began their Sunday service praying for her safe return.

Shannon - from Dewsbury Moor in West Yorkshire - did not return home from school after a swimming trip on Tuesday.

The vicar of Heckmondwike, Reverend Simon Pitcher, said: "We lit a candle and we had a silence so we could pray for her family and for her safe return."

A spokeswoman from West Yorkshire Police said: "Significant searches are continuing around the area where she was last seen.

"We are continuing to follow up information from members of the public including the recovery of CCTV and the house to house inquiries are also continuing."

Officers have already searched 200 houses within a half mile radius of Shannon's home and have also received more than 300 calls from the public.

Chief Superintendent Barry South, a senior officer in the inquiry, said that police remained "gravely concerned" about Shannon's welfare.

He said: "Anyone at this stage would be concerned."

"What we have got to do though is maintain the activity."

Shannon was last seen at 3.10pm after returning from a swimming lesson.

CCTV footage showing the youngster entering and leaving Dewsbury Sports Centre swimming pool with classmates shortly before her disappearance has been released by police.

She was dressed in a black jumper with a school logo on it, a white cotton T-shirt, black trousers and a waist-length black coat with fur round the hood. She was also wearing distinctive pink and grey "Bratz" furry boots.

Anyone with information is asked to contact West Yorkshire Police on 01274 373737, or by text on 07786 200806, or, alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

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