Sally Allan: Northumbria Police search River Tyne for woman since Boxing Day

Police searching for a mother-of-three who has been missing in Newcastle since Boxing Day have begun focusing their search on a small stretch of the River Tyne. Sally Allan, 59, was caught on CCTV on Newcastle Quayside at 6am that day.

Footage shows her walking rapidly towards the Swing Bridge along the river, before the camera loses track of her. She left her home in Ponteland, Northumberland three hours previously, wearing a cream waterproof anorak on top of a fleece and her pyjamas.

Chief Inspector Steve Readdie said: "This is an incredibly difficult time for Sally's family and I know they have been overwhelmed by the level of support shown by the public.

"We have been reviewing CCTV footage alongside the family. This footage has led to our search efforts being concentrated on a small stretch of the River Tyne at the Swing Bridge.

"Our marine unit will continue to search in the water, and along the river banks, for any sign of Sally or any clues that could help trace her whereabouts. Inquiries are continuing today and we will continue to support the family at what is an understandably distressing time."

Anyone with information to help is asked to contact Northumbria police on 101.