POSSIBLE sightings of missing chef Claudia Lawrence have been reported from as far away as South Africa, it emerged yesterday.

Detectives have also been examining CCTV footage taken in London after another reported sighting in the capital.

Miss Lawrence vanished from her York home more than 100 days ago and despite a huge police operation her whereabouts are still a complete mystery.

Many possible sightings have been reported via the website findclaudia.co.uk, which was set up by Miss Lawrence’s father Peter to aid the investigation.

Family spokesman Martin Dales said: "We have had a number of e-mails through the website from people who think they’ve seen her from all over the place – Wales, South Africa, Germany and London.

"Anything of any substance that is relevant to the police goes directly to them."

He added: "It’s very encouraging to Peter and the family that everybody is still out there keeping their eyes peeled.

"That is great because that is one of the ways in which she may well be found."

The man leading the inquiry, Detective Superintendent Ray Galloway, confirmed that the investigation was very wide-ranging and that they were examining CCTV footage taken in London as they sought to ensure every avenue was explored.

The last confirmed sighting of Miss Lawrence was on Match 18, soon after she had finished her shift at York University’s Goodricke College.

Police are treating the case as one of suspected murder and the charity Crimestoppers is offering a £10,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person, or persons, responsible.

Anyone with any information should contact police on 0845 6060 247 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.