AN elderly woman who was reported missing from Wareham has been found safe by officers.

Eileen Samways, aged 72, was reported missing at 9.50am on Thursday, August 15 after it was discovered that she was not at her home address in Sherford Drive.

She was last spoken to at 9.55am on Wednesday, August 14.

Extensive searches were carried out in the area by officers, assisted by Dorset Search & Rescue (DorSAR), Wessex 4x4 Response and the NPAS helicopter.

As a result of these searches Eileen was located in Wareham this morning. She has been returned home.

Chief Inspector Wayne Nock, of Dorset Police, said: “I would like to thank all the officers, staff and volunteer agencies who worked tirelessly over the last two days to search for Eileen.

“I am also grateful for those members of public who responded to our appeal with possible sightings.”