A Chelmsford woman has received her first letter from the sister who disappeared without trace from the area more than 30 years ago.

Now she is appealing for her to contact her again.

Pat Poulter, 67, was shocked when she received the letter, which had no return address.

She had no idea what had happened to her sister, Julie Barber, also known as Judy.

"At first, I thought the letter was a self-addressed envelope, something I had sent off for -- that's how alike our writing is," said Pat.

"I just couldn't believe it. I am so pleased to hear from Judy and would be overjoyed to see her again."

Mrs Barber, with her husband, Derek, and son, Douglas, disappeared from Van Diemans Lane, Chelmsford, where they had been living with her father. They left no clue as to where they were going.

Pat -- who has seven children, 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren -- was pleased to learn that her sister, who celebrates her 60th birthday today (Friday), has since had a daughter and three grandchildren.

"I would like to wish Judy a happy birthday and ask her to contact me again," she said.

"We have lots of family dos coming up next year. One of my sons and one of my daughters are both getting married, and I would dearly love Judy to be there.

"I don't want to know why she left, unless she wants to tell me. I just want us to know where each other are and to keep in touch."

Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Mrs Barber can contact Katy Fisher at the Essex Chronicle on 01245 603346.

Pat with her sister's letter.

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