FEARS are growing for the safety of a Gwent woman who vanished after travelling to America to see a rock concert.

Kirsty Omerod, pictured, of Chepstow Road, Newport, went to the All State Arena, Chicago, to see her favourite band, Guns N' Roses, on November 16.

The 20-year-old checked out of her Chicago hotel on November 20 - but failed to return to Britain as planned.

Now detectives in Newport say they are becoming increasingly worried about her whereabouts - and are appealing for anyone she may have contacted to get in touch.

Detective Sergeant Mark Warrender told the Argus: "She was expected to only be away for a few days.

"We believe it is possible she is still in the USA. The tour of Guns N' Roses has ended, and we initially thought she may have been following them.

"Inquiries are being conducted through Interpol. Her ticket was a return but has not been used and is now void."

But there was an unconfirmed sighting of Kirsty in Newport last week, and police are appealing for her to get in touch.

DS Warrender added: "We want to establish whether anybody has seen her or heard from her, we are keen to establish that she is safe.

"It is concerning she has not contacted anyone to let them know about her whereabouts, and her family are very concerned."

Detectives have also contacted the American equivalent of the National Missing Persons' Helpline.

A spokesman for Guns N' Roses UK record label said yesterday he hoped that Kirsty was safe and well.

He added: "Wherever you are, Kirsty, please get in touch with someone to let them know that you are safe, and please come home soon."

Kirsty is described as about 5ft 6in tall, of medium build, with blonde hair and blue eyes.

She has a slight northern accent.

Anyone who has heard from her since November or knows her whereabouts should call Maindee CID on 01633 258374.