A POLICE force's most senior investigating officer has been appointed to head an inquiry into the disappearance of a prostitute from a red light district.

An incident room has been opened at Middlesbrough police station and Detective Superintendent Tony Hutchinson has been given a 40-strong team in his search for 19-year-old Rachel Wilson.

Like vice girl Vicky Glass, 21, whose remains were found on the North York Moors two years ago, and prostitute Donna Keogh, who disappeared from the town in 1998, Rachel is a drugs addict.

Det Supt Hutchinson said: "While I am aware that we have an unsolved murder of a prostitute and, indeed, have another missing from home, there is nothing at this moment to suggest that Rachel's disappearance is linked with these inquiries.

"But it is fair to say I am keeping an open mind."

Rachel was last seen plying her trade in Southfield Road, Middlesbrough, at about 11.30pm a fortnight ago today.

Her family say that, despite her problems, Rachel never let a day go by without a visit or telephone call.

But nothing has been heard of the woman, who started taking heroin and crack cocaine 18 months ago.

Det Supt Hutchinson said: "I am becoming increasingly concerned over the disappearance of Rachel Wilson.

"She has had no contact whatsoever with her family and she is very close to them."

All calls to the incident room, telephone number (01642) 303187, will be treated in confidence, he said