Body of dog found in search for woman Hazel Nairn swept into River Don amid flooding in Aberdeenshire

The body of a dog has been recovered in the search for a woman who was swept into the River Don amid severe flooding.

Hazel Nairn was last seen in the water near Monymusk, Aberdeenshire, at around 3.05pm on Friday, November 18.

The 71-year-old was trying to return home with her West Highland terrier at the time of her disappearance.

Officers have confirmed the body of the Westie was recovered near the River Don on Wednesday as the search for Ms Nairn enters its sixth day.

Inspector Andrew Meikleham said: “Police are continuing to carry out searches and conduct enquiries to trace 71-year-old Hazel Nairn, who was last seen in the water in the River Don, near to Monymusk around 3.05pm on Friday, November 18, 2022.

“Searches are being carried out from the area where Hazel was last seen downstream towards Aberdeen.

“Due to the deteriorating weather that afternoon, Hazel had been trying to get home safely from the village of Monymusk along with her dog. The body of Hazel’s dog was found near to the river on Wednesday, 23 November.

“Local officers and search advisors are being assisted by specialist resources including the Dive and Marine Unit as we continue to search for Hazel.”

A local vigil was held at the Monymusk Parish Church on Sunday evening.

On social media, the church said: “Our thoughts and prayers are with Hazel’s family during this terrible time.

“We light a candle and offer prayer for them all.”

A Christmas lights switch-on event in Monymusk was also cancelled out of respect for Ms Nairn.