Officers received a report raising concern for the welfare of Emma Lauder after she was last in Spetisbury area before 12pm on Wednesday, March 20.

Emma is described as five feet four inches tall and of medium to large build with short dark hair.

She was wearing an orange or red fleece and wellington boots and carrying a large black rucksack.

Inspector Tracy Santoni, of Dorset Police, said: “We are concerned for Emma’s welfare, and we are keen to find her as soon as possible so we can make sure that she is all right.

“We believe Emma is on foot and we are conducting various searches in the Spetisbury area.

“I would urge anyone with information as to Emma’s whereabouts, or who sees a woman matching the description given, to please make contact with us immediately.

“I would also like to make a plea to Emma if you see this to please get in touch with us or your loved ones and let us know where you are. We all just want to check that you are OK.”

Anyone with information or knowledge as to Emma's whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 20:255.