POLICE today launched a nationwide hunt after a York man and his 14-year-old stepdaughter disappeared only days after her mother went missing.

Lisa Allen, of Thoresby Road, Acomb, was last seen at nearby Oaklands School on Thursday.

Police believe she may be with Nicholas Allen, 30, who went missing from home on the same day.

Sergeant Ian Dyer, of York police, said today officers believed they were in a white Ford Galaxy vehicle, registration X798 CAN.

Lisa's mother, Christine, who police say is thought to be suffering from depression, went missing on September 12. She was last heard from on Monday when she contacted a relative by phone.

Officers remain baffled as to exactly why the trio have disappeared, but believe they may have some "financial issues".

Details of the disappearances were today being circulated among police forces nationwide.

Sergeant Dyer told the Evening Press it appeared that Lisa and Nicholas had planned their disappearance, but he said they were "concerned for Lisa's welfare".

Lisa's grandmother, Pauline, who lives at the family home in Thoresby Road, said today she was sick with worry.

"Lisa told me she had school football practice at lunchtime but never came back," she said.

"I'm very concerned - I've not been able to sleep. I've got no idea what this is all about, but I believe Lisa has gone to be with her mum.

"I first thought she had gone off with Nicholas, but I'm not sure now."

Oaklands School deputy head Gavin Cowley said Lisa was a positive and lively girl who had been settling into her GCSE work.

Police say Lisa is white, 5ft 1in tall, of proportionate build, with blue eyes, and blonde hair with strawberry highlights, which is usually tied back. She has a fair complexion, wears a brace and talks in a "posh" voice.

Christine is described as 5ft 4ins tall, slim, with shoulder-length dark brown hair.

She was wearing blue jeans, a grey jumper with a lion motif and a blue bodywarmer when she disappeared.

Nicholas is 6ft 2ins tall, skinny, and has a tattoo of a cross on his left hand. He was dressed smartly.

Sergeant Dyer added: "We've got concerns for Lisa's welfare and would appeal for anyone with information to come forward."

Anyone with information about their whereabouts is asked to contact York Police on 01904 631321.

Updated: 11:26 Monday, September 22, 2003