Thanks ladies - I've at least stopped crying now and that sick feeling is slowly going away. DD ran to DH when she saw him and said
DD: mummy crying daddy
DH: that's because you ran away and didn't tell mummy where you were going
DD: but daddy I just getting scamp
DH: you scared mummy that's all
DD: but I just getting scamp silly mummy.

They are just so innocent. She is sound asleep on the couch as we speak - exhausted from her outing obviously!!

What a great idea to ring the school. They may be able to help me out. Thanks ladies