Search for woman could take weeks

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The search for a 55-year-old woman reported missing from the Forest of Dean since 5 November could take several weeks, police have said.

Kathleen Prout, also known as Kate, was last seen at the farm in Redmarley where she lives with her husband.

Specially-trained officers have been conducting a search of more than 200 acres surrounding their house.

No excavation has taken place so far, but a JCB digger has been used to move a large amount of grain from a barn.

'Prayers said'

Police have appealed directly to Ms Prout to contact them.

Supt Tony Godwin said: "If you are able to contact us Kate then we urge you to do so.

"You may not want to speak to any of your family or friends but you can speak to us in confidence.

"Please call us on 0845 090 1234."

Ms Prout is white, 5ft 6in tall and of medium build.

Described as having a pale complexion, she has blue eyes and red, shoulder-length straight hair.

She was wearing jeans and a black v-neck top when last seen.

A digger was used to remove a large quantity of grain

People in the village of Redmarley said they were shocked at her disappearance and that prayers would be said for her at the local church on Sunday.

The search for Ms Prout is now turning into a major investigation, but police are keen to stress the investigation is still a missing person inquiry

Detectives say they are keeping an open mind and have not ruled out the possibility that someone else may be involved in her disappearance.