Family of Alice Byrne 'shocked and distressed' by disappearance

The family of a missing woman who vanished on New Year’s Day have said they are “shocked and distressed” by her disappearance.

Alice Byrne, 28, was last seen leaving a friend’s flat in Portobello’s Marlborough Street, Edinburgh, between 8am and 10am last Saturday.

Detectives believe she potentially headed in the direction of the promenade and beach. However, extensive searches have failed to find any trace of Ms Byrne.

In a statement released via Police Scotland on Saturday, her family said: “Alice has been missing for one week now and we are shocked and distressed by her disappearance.

“She always keeps in contact with us so we are extremely worried because we have not heard from her. We are desperate to know where she is.

“If Alice sees this, we want her to know how much we miss her. We just want her home safe and well.”

The family urged anyone who has seen Ms Byrne or who has any information to come forward.

The family added: “We are very grateful for the support we have received during this upsetting time.

“We would like to thank everyone who has shared appeals to find her, the police for their professionalism and especially the local community for all the support they’ve given.”

Chief inspector Kieran Dougal said no one has heard from Ms Byrne since she disappeared.

He added: “As time passes we have become increasingly concerned for her wellbeing and safety.”

Investigation: Ms Byrne pictured in an outfit similar to the one she was wearing when she disappeared. Police Scotland

Searches of the Portobello area have involved specialist resources including air support, police dogs and the marine unit.

Ms Byrne is around 5ft 6in with a medium build and short black hair. When last seen she was wearing a black top, black jeans ripped at the knees and white trainers.

CI Dougal added: “We continue to appeal to anyone who was in the Portobello area at that time who may have dashcam footage to check devices and call if you have any sightings of Alice.

“We are aware that the beach and promenade area was busy on New Year’s morning, so appeal to anyone to review photos and call if they have any information that may assist in tracing Alice.

“Officers have been speaking to local people and visiting local businesses in the area in case anyone remembers seeing Alice in the area.

“Naturally Alice’s friends and family are extremely concerned and we just want to trace her as soon as possible to ensure she is safe.

“Again, I would urge anyone who has seen Alice since Saturday, January 1, or who has any information that may be relevant to our investigation to contact us as soon as possible.

“If Alice reads this appeal, please phone your family, friends or the police.”

If you have any information, call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.