Police continue enquiries in bid to find missing Downham Market woman Mary White after six days of ‘extensive’ searches

Police are continuing enquiries to find missing Downham woman Mary White - who was last seen almost a week ago.

Officers have said that, over the last six days, specialist search teams have carried out “extensive searches” around the town for the 73-year-old.

Mary was last seen at her home address in Nelson Avenue at around 10pm on Tuesday, September 24.

She was reported missing by family the following morning, when it was discovered she was no longer in the house.

CCTV shows Mary walking along Railway Road at 3.30am on Wednesday wearing white pyjamas.

There have been no sightings since and Mary remains missing.

Specialist search teams including the marine unit and police drone have been looking for her around the town, in open areas and along the riverbanks.

They have also searched insecure buildings and carried out door-to-door enquiries - police have said these specialist searches are now largely complete.

Officers will continue regular searches in the area and are also carrying out ongoing enquiries.

Chief Inspector Chris Banks said: “We do have to be open to all possibilities and our focus remains on finding Mary.

“Clearly this is a distressing time for her family and we continue to keep them updated.”

Last week, Downham borough councillors praised residents from the town and the surrounding areas for their efforts in the search for Mary.

Cllr Joshua Osborne said: “The police are urging people to keep an eye out for Mary and in particular look through any doorbell or dashcam footage Downham Market residents might have.

“Clearly residents and local organisations are already doing this and sharing widely the information about Mary, who hopefully will be found with these efforts.”

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

And West Norfolk deputy mayor Cllr Andy Bullen said: “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.”

Mary is described as around 5ft tall and of slim build, with shoulder-length grey hair.

Anyone who has seen Mary or has any information about where she may be is asked to contact Norfolk Police on 101 quoting ref 48 of September 25.