A man accused of murdering a fourteen year old girl who vanished in 2003 has been cleared after the charge was dropped.

Schoolgirl Charlene Downes from Blackpool disappeared after telling her mother Karen that she would not be late home.

The man, who can't be named for legal reasons, had been due to face a re-trial after a previous jury failed to reach a verdict in the case despite a massive investigation by Lancashire police.

But at Preston Crown Court, the prosecution dropped the case, and a not guilty verdict was entered by Mr Justice Roderick Evans.

The judge was told that a witness in the case was no longer considered to be reliable.

Members of Charlene's family, from Buchanan Street, Blackpool, were not in court to hear the decision.

No evidence was offered against 51-year-old Mohammed Raveshi of Hornby Road, Blackpool, who was accused of assisting an offender.

His barrister, Mr John Bromley Davenport QC, said his business and reputation had suffered severe damage and he would be looking for compensation against the police.

Charlene has not been seen alive since she kissed her mother Karen goodbye at a bus stop in central Blackpool in November 2003.

Detective Superintendent Kevin Toole who is leading the investigation into the alleged murder of Charlene said: "Today, after many hours of careful consideration by the prosecuting counsel and the Crown Prosecution Service the decision has been taken by the CPS that there is insufficient evidence to place before a second jury.

"The inevitable consequence is that there will be no retrial of the two Defendants.

"Charlene's parents were informed of the reasons for this in advance of the decision being announced and naturally they are, to say the least, very disappointed.

"This has been one of Lancashire Constabulary's longest running murder investigations.

"It has been an incredibly complex, difficult and time-consuming enquiry with over 200 police officers and staff working upon it since Charlene disappeared at the beginning of November 2003.

"We have worked tirelessly in our pursuit of justice for Charlene and her family. We must now accept that we don't have sufficient evidence to secure convictions in this case.

"This does not mean that the investigation that was launched when Charlene disappeared is at an end and the enquiry will remain open.

"Our thoughts are with Charlene's parents, her family and friends at this time.

"They will find it difficult to put Charlene to rest until they feel that justice has been done.

"Lancashire Police will continue to support them as the investigation continues."