POLICE have called- off their search for a young girl dressed in pyjamas who knocked on a stranger's door in the middle of the night — though her identity remains unknown.

The child, thought to be aged between five and seven and carrying a cuddly toy, called at a house in Talbot Street, Gowerton, just before 1am on December 10.

She said she was looking for a friend, but before the householders could help she walked away and vanished into the night.

The disturbing incident prompted a major police operation to try to trace the youngster.

As part of the search they worked with local schools to identify children who had been absent from class, and then spoke to all parents involved.

Officers also appealed in the Evening Post for anybody with information about what happened — or anyone who saw anything suspicious on the night in question — to come forward.

However, police have said they have been unable to positively identify the girl.

A South Wales Police spokesman said: "Extensive inquiries have been made which have included house-to-house calls, local schools and hospitals and other agencies in order to trace the child.

"No incidents of any criminal offences have been reported and no children fitting the description have been reported missing, either locally or nationally.

"As a consequence there will be no further action at this stage."