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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Benedict Tetzlaff-Deas

Body found in urgent police search for missing mum, 51, who vanished near river

Police have found a body in the search for a mother who disappeared near a river.

Fiona Edson, 51, has been missing since leaving her home in Wiltshire on the afternoon of June 25.

A statement from Wiltshire Police confirmed a body had been found on Saturday afternoon, and said Fiona's family had been informed.

Formal identification is yet to take place. Police do not believe there to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death.

The force said: "We can confirm that a body has been found this afternoon (1/7) in the Calne area in the search for missing Chippenham woman Fiona Edson.

The discovery of a body follows a major search operation in Chippenham (Daniel Jae Webb / SWNS)

"Although formal identification has not yet taken place, Fiona's family have been updated regarding this development and are being supported by specialist officers. They have asked for privacy at this extremely difficult time.

"Our thoughts remain with Fiona's family and friends. Formal identification will take place in due course."

"Although it is early stages, we do not believe there to be any suspicious circumstances surrounding the death."

At the time of her disappearance, Fiona was wearing a khaki shirt and denim shorts. Her dark hair was being worn in a ponytail and she was wearing glasses.

Emergency services had earlier been seen conducting a major search operation in Chippenham's Monkton Park.

Police said Fiona left home on her mobility scooter (Daniel Jae Webb / SWNS)

Dozens of specially-trained volunteers have been involved in the six-day hunt, as well as the police helicopter and drones.

Speaking during the search, police said Fiona has limited mobility and left her home on her mobility scooter, though is able to walk short distances.

Boats were deployed on the River Avon but searches of the water were delayed as the vessel sustained damage.

The inflatable craft's propeller was taken out of action when it struck a large metal object beneath the surface.

On Thursday a cadaver dog for detection of human remains was also deployed along the fast-flowing stretch of the river.

The animal sniffs out human scent particles emanating from the water and indicates its find to its handler.

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