Search continues for woman missing since New Year's Day

Searches are continuing for an Edinburgh woman who was last seen on New Year’s Day.

Alice Byrne, 28, was last seen leaving a friend’s flat in Portobello’s Marlborough Street, Edinburgh, between 8am and 10am last Saturday, January 1.

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.

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Alice remains missing and enquiries are ongoing.”

Ms Byrne’s family has urged anyone with information to come forward.

In a statement, they said: “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.”

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.

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.

“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.