Police looking for Nicola Bulley have confirmed that the focus of the search has moved towards the coast.
Mum-of-two Nicola hasn't been seen since January 27. She was last spotted as she took her dog for a walk after dropping her children off at school in St Michael’s on Wyre in Lancashire.
Police believe she has fallen into the River Wyre but Nicola's family and friends have questioned the theory saying they are yet to see any evidence that points to this. Lancashire Police has rejected suggestions Nicola could have been a victim of crime, but the force said they are investigating every line of inquiry that comes to them.
READ MORE: In the village where Nicola Bulley vanished her face is everywhere, her name on everyone's lips
On Wednesday a team of specialist underwater searchers who were checking the water close to where Nicola went missing called off their operation.
In an update on Thursday lunchtime, Lancashire Police said the focus of the search has now moved further downstream.
A spokesperson said: "Our investigation to the disappearance of Nicola Bulley is continuing and we continue to search areas of the River Wyre and surrounding area.
"People may have seen less police activity today than previously in the area of the river above the weir but that is not because we have stepped down our searches, it is because the focus of the search has moved further downstream into the area of the river which becomes tidal and then out towards the sea."
Police also said dispersal orders were issued against individuals on Wednesday night. It comes after reports that a group had travelled to the area to search an 'abandoned' house.
A police spokesperson added: "We can confirm a dispersal order was issued around 8.40pm yesterday (Wednesday, February 8) in St Michael’s on Wyre.
"This followed reports of individuals – from outside the area of St Michael’s - filming on social media close to properties.
"The order will remain in place for 48 hours and gives officers the power to disperse anyone committing anti-social behaviour.
"Two dispersal notices were issued, and a number of other people were warned about their behaviour.
"We hope that will give people some reassurance that we will not tolerate criminality, including trespass and criminal damage.
"We are also aware of a number of grossly offensive comments being made on social media and elsewhere. We are looking into these and will not hesitate to take action where appropriate."
Anyone with information which could assist our investigation should call us on 101 quoting log 0565 of January 30th. For immediate sightings please call 999.
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