Police are appealing for public assistance to locate teenager Bella Hilton, who is missing from Lake Macquarie.

It’s believed the 17-year-old failed to return to her Belmont home overnight.

Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District have started inquiries into her whereabouts as they have concerns for her welfare due to her age.

Early investigations indicate Bella was seen leaving an address at Raymond Terrace on Tuesday morning 5 April.

She is described as being of Caucasian appearance, between 165cm-170cm tall, of solid build, blonde shoulder-length hair and green/hazel eyes.

When last seen, Bella was wearing blue jeans and a blue shirt.

She is believed to be travelling in a silver 2007-model Mazda 3.

Anyone with information about Bella’s whereabouts is urged to contact police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.