Police believe football match banner sparked surge in calls

A HUGE pitch-side billboard seen during a televised football match led to a surge in calls to police appealing for information on missing schoolgirls Holly and Jessica, police have said.

The banner, running alongside one touchline, was seen by millions of armchair football fans who tuned in to watch Manchester United play Zalaegerszeg on Wednesday.

The sign which read "MISSING! Holly & Jessica Call 0500 700 700" prompted a floods of calls to police and the National Missing Persons helpline.