ONE of Dorset’s top police officers has made a public plea to find a missing woman as fears grow for her welfare.

Assistant Chief Constable for Dorset Police Mark Cooper has called for members of the public to help in the search for Jean Lea who went missing from her home in Bearwood over the weekend.

He tweeted: “We are extremely worried for Jean so any information would be really welcome. Please keep your eyes open for her.”

Investigations continue into the disappearance of Ms Lea who is believed to have left her house in Meadow View Road, just before 3am on Sunday.

Police have been carrying out an extensive search of areas surrounding her home and places she was known to walk her dog.

Jean, 67, is described as white, five feet eight inches tall, and of slim build.

She has short blonde hair and it is believed that she left her home wearing her night clothes.

Members of Dorset Police’s marine division were seen searching the River Stour on Sunday, between West Parley and Canford School.

They thanked residents whose homes back onto the river for allowing them into their gardens to conduct their search.

Officers were also seen searching close to the King’s Arms pub in Longham.

And a renewed appeal from police was issued yesterday as well.

Inspector Andy Allkins, of Dorset Police, said: "We are issuing a new photo of Jean and would encourage anyone who believes they have seen her since she went missing to please get in touch.

“We are becoming increasingly concerned for the welfare of Jean as we believe she has been confused recently.

“I am appealing to anyone who has seen a woman matching her description, to please contact Dorset Police as soon as possible.

“If Jean sees this appeal, please get in touch with your family or police as we all want to ensure you are safe and well.”

A friend who contacted the Daily Echo, and asked not to be named, said she’d been out looking for Ms Lea on Sunday.

“I’m really worried about her. There might still be hope,” she said.

Residents had taken to social media to share news of Ms Lea’s disappearance, with many claiming to have met the “lovely lady” at Matalan where she used to work at Turbary Retail Park.

Many sent best wishes to her friends and family hoping she would return home safe and well.

Anyone with information on Jean’s whereabouts is asked to call 101 quoting reference 26:36.

Or visit dorset.police.uk, email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.