Search resumes for missing Alethea Taylor

The search for missing former teacher Alethea Taylor was being resumed near Ludlow today, police said.

Sniffer dogs and the force helicopter were being sent to Orleton to help search for the missing 63-year-old.

The fresh searches will be carried out in and around the village.

Officers hope to find new evidence to help establish her whereabouts.

Mrs Taylor was reported missing on January 19 and has not been seen by anyone since.

Detective Inspector Dave Williams, who is based in CID in Hereford, said: "We have been working with the National Policing Improvement Agency (NPIA) in relation to the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Alethea Taylor and I can confirm that further searches will be taking place.

"The searches will involve the use of air support and ground support teams with specialist search dogs, and will focus on selected areas in the countryside around the village.

"Due to the passage of time we are now extremely concerned for the welfare of Mrs Taylor, as she has now been missing for over four weeks.

"Can I take this opportunity to remind people that anyone who believes they may have information that could help find Mrs Taylor is asked to call West Mercia Police on 0300 333 3000 or 101."

Mrs Taylor is described as being white, around 5ft 7inches tall and as having short, dark but slightly greying hair.

She was last seen at around 8.30am on January 19 when her husband left their home in Orleton for work.

There was no sign of her when he returned at 4pm.

See also:

• Police search launched over missing Ludlow woman

• Search for missing Alethea Taylor continues

• Villagers’ search for Alethea Taylor ends