Officers have expressed “extreme concern” for a woman from South Ayrshire who has been missing for more than two weeks.
Laura Wilkie was last seen at around 8.30pm on Monday, December 18 in the Millennium Bridge area of Ayr.
She was initially reported missing earlier that day, being seen in Alloway at around 3pm.
Police Scotland said on Wednesday that officers searching for the 43-year-old were speaking to members of the public in the area where she was last seen.
Laura was wearing a dark-coloured padded coat with a beige fur-trimmed hood and another dark-coloured waterproof coat over it.
She was also wearing black leggings, black shoes and carrying a black rucksack. She walks with a distinctive blue cane.
Laura is described as 5ft 4 in height and of slim build with greying, closely cropped hair.
Chief inspector Kevin Lammie, the local area commander, said: “On Wednesday January 3, officers spoke to members of the public in the area around Millenium Bridge in case this is an area they visit or pass regularly and they may remember seeing Laura there.
“A number of motorists and pedestrians were spoken to and we will follow up any information gained.
“Laura isn’t known to travel far from home and goes out in the Ayr, Ayr beach and Doonfoot areas.
“We have been carrying out a wide range of searches and enquiries to trace Laura. Local officers, led by specialist search advisors have been assisted by resources including the Air Support Unit and the Dive and Marine Unit.”
Chief inspector Lammie said despite these efforts, as well as previous public appeals, Police Scotland is yet to trace Laura.
He continued: “It is completely out of character for Laura not to keep in contact with her family and this is a very upsetting time for them.
“As time passes, we are extremely concerned for Laura’s safety and well-being.
“As our enquiries continue, I would again urge anyone who has seen Laura since Monday, December 18, 2023 or who has any information on her whereabouts to contact us as soon possible.
“Please contact 101 with reference number 1370 of December 19.”
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William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
