Police increasingly worried about woman whose personal belongings were found on river bank

Police say they are becoming increasingly concerned for the safety and whereabouts of 39-year-old Lucy Charles who has been missing from Bangor-on-Dee on the North Wales/Shropshire border since December 22.

Officers are warning people not to go near the river, which is subject to a flood alert, in any searches for Lucy.

She is described as being approximately 5ft 6 inches tall, has shoulder-length brown hair and wears glasses.

Chief Inspector Stephen Roberts of North Wales Police said: “It has been a particularly difficult time for Lucy’s family, especially given that we just had the festive period.

“Lucy was last seen on December 22 in Station Road, Bangor on Dee at 5.34 pm when she was seen on CCTV walking past the Royal Oak.

“Since this time extensive searches have taken place which have led us to find personal items of Lucy’s on the bank of the River Dee close to the Severn Trent Water Treatment Works.

“During the last two weeks we have carried out extensive enquiries and searches of both the river Dee and the local area.

“I would like to thank everyone who has assisted in the searches including the local mountain rescue team, the fire service, the police helicopter and the police under water search team who have carried out extensive water based searches in difficult weather and water conditions, from Bangor on Dee to Chester. Their searches continue to take place.

“I would also like thank members of the public who have responded to our earlier appeals. My ask is for anyone who was in Bangor on Dee on these dates to think back - did you see Lucy at all? She was wearing a navy padded coat, significantly with a hi-viz vest, khaki-coloured leggings and black boots. If you feel that you did then please contact North Wales Police either online or 101, even if you are not certain it was Lucy, please let us know.

“The River Dee is in a very dangerous state of flooding at this time and I would urge members of the public not to venture near the river.

“Our searches continue; and Lucy’s family are being kept informed. Finally, my thoughts remain with Lucy’s family at this difficult time.”

Anyone who may have information is asked to contact North Wales Police urgently via its website or by calling 101, quoting reference number 46914.