HUNDREDS of people have joined a group on the social networking website Facebook aimed at finding Claudia Lawrence.

“Missing Person- Claudia Lawrence” was set up by friends of the missing 35-year-old in a bid to spread the word about her disappearance.

More than 1,300 internet-users have become members of the group, with scores of people posting messages of support.

Claudia, who was educated at the former York College for Girls, previously worked at the Quality Hotel, in Piccadilly, York, and at the city’s Monkbar Hotel.

* Carol Smith wrote: “Be strong Claudia, and come back safely. All my love to all your family – we’re thinking of you all constantly.”

* Karl Horton wrote: “Claudia, or Cat as I used to call her when back in the good old days of Monkbar, the sweetest and caring person, please be somewhere safe and come home.”

* Michaela Betts wrote: “I used to hang out with Claudia when I was a teenager – I send all my best regards to her family in the difficult time and hope and pray that she returns safely.”

* Thomas Gibson wrote: “My heart and prayers go out to this family. I cannot begin to conceive what they are going through.”

* Suzy Cooper wrote: “Just want to say thanks to everyone who is supporting us in our bid to find our beautiful friend, Claudia.”

* Natalie Wheatley wrote: “Hope you’re listening Claudia… You’ve got a lot of people out here that obviously love you. Come home soon and I hope you’re safe.”