UPDATED: Hampshire Constabulary have stepped up their search for missing 44-year-old Charlotte Alder this morning (Thursday), calling upon the Coastguard rescue helicopter for assistance.
The Lee-on-Solent based helicopter has been circling the skies above Newport since around 04:15 this morning, paying particular attention to the River Medina area.
Although the helicopter has now stood down and returned to base, it’s understood that ground teams are to begin a full search within the next hour or so.
Charlotte Alder – also known as Charlotte Birch – hasn’t been seen since she discharged herself from St Mary’s Hospital in Newport yesterday afternoon, as reported by Island Echo last night. She is understood to be wearing a pink top, green hospital scrub trousers and a black speckled cardigan with black fur lined boots.
The 44-year-old suffers from epilepsy and is not thought to have any medication with her. Concerns for her welfare are increasing by the hour.
Police say that officers have spent the night looking for Charlotte and are now turning to the public for help as you head out this morning.
WightSAR – the Island’s volunteer search and rescue team – have been deployed to assist the search this morning.
Charlotte is described as being white, 5ft 6ins tall, of a slim build with shoulder length brown hair. She wears glasses.
Anyone who sees Charlotte should contact Police on 101 quoting 44190010676. In an emergency dial 999.
