SHE was one of the best work experience students they had ever taken on.

Staff at the Out of Town Centre in Beaulieu have spoken of their shock at the disappearance of schoolgirl Rosemary Edwards, who was reported missing two weeks ago today.

Rosemary, 15, spent a fortnight at the centre earlier this year and impressed everyone who met her.

She mucked out the animals on a farm, bought feed from a local supplier and even agreed to help kill and pluck chickens.

Grown up One of the farmers, Lisa Van Hennik, said: "Rosemary is very bright and really grown up for her age.

"She did everything she was asked to do and did it brilliantly.

"I've only been here for a year but she was definitely one of the best work experience students I've ever seen. She was up for anything."

Rosemary, who worked at the farm between June 4 and 15, often talked about her love of horses and how she liked to go riding with a friend.

Big shock Lisa added: "When she applied to do work experience here she said she wanted to become an equine vet and would benefit greatly from the experience. She said she exercised two ponies and also had experience with dogs.

"During her time at the farm she seemed very happy and didn't appear to have any worries.

"Her disappearance has come as a really big shock.

"When I first heard the name I thought it can't be her', but police have searched the farm and people taking part in the Culverley round-up were asked to keep a look-out for any sign of her.

"We're just hoping and praying she will be found safe and well."

Rosemary, of Wellington Close, Dibden Purlieu, disappeared on the night of September 4/5 after a family row resulted in her being banned from riding for a month. However, her distraught dad, David Edwards, 52, has repeatedly stressed that all is forgiven.

Supt Barry Talbot, of New Forest police, has also urged Rosemary to put the past behind her and either return home or make contact.

He said: "She is not in trouble. We just want to hear from her to know that she is safe."