Searches continue for missing Downham Market woman Mary White - as community praised for efforts to find her

Searches have been continuing today for the missing 73-year-old Downham woman Mary White.

Yesterday, Norfolk Police issued an appeal for help to find Mary, who was last seen at her home address on Nelson Avenue at around 10pm on Tuesday.

Officers said they were concerned for Mary’s welfare and asked for people with information regarding her whereabouts to get in touch.

Dozens of people in Downham and the surrounding areas have been sharing updates on their searches for Mary on social media - particularly in the Downham Market Discussion Forum with Admin Facebook group.

One of the search coordinators told the Lynn News: “All we want is that Mary is home safe and well.”

Downham borough councillor and West Norfolk deputy mayor Andy Bullen said the community’s efforts to find Mary was an example of where social media could “bring people together”.

“This is a very distressing time for everyone involved, particularly in adverse weather conditions,” Cllr Bullen said.

“But there’s always hope. Everyone can do their little bit by searching and checking anything that looks unusual.

“These efforts show how the community of Downham - and those further afield - can work well together and get involved in situations like these.”

He added: “Hopefully Mary is found safe.

“I’m sure the community will be out there until she’s found.”

Norfolk Police shared the following description of Mary in its appeal for help to find her.

She is described as 5ft tall, with grey shoulder-length hair - her hair is not coloured as in the photograph provided.

When she was last seen, she was wearing white pyjamas and slippers, and it is unclear whether she has taken a change of clothes.

Officers are asking anyone who has seen her or has any information about where she may be to contact Norfolk Police on 101 quoting ref 48 of September 25.

Norfolk Police has been approached for an update.