Police divers to join search for missing woman

A police diver team will join the search for a Balclutha woman who went missing two days ago. File photo / NZ Herald

Police divers will tomorrow join the search for a Balclutha woman who went missing in a distressed state two days ago.

Balclutha police and search and rescue volunteers yesterday started searching for Shelley Marie Carson, 36, who was last seen on the banks of the River Clutha west of Balclutha Bridge about 3pm Monday.

Today 20 Search and Rescue personnel searched the river bank, and four boats were used to search the river for any signs of Miss Carson.

A private helicopter, arranged by a friend of Miss Carson, also conducted an aerial search over the area near where she was last seen.

In the afternoon police put up a local helicopter to search the river when water levels were lower.

Her clothing, medication and cellphone were found about 200m west of the bridge, an area which has now been cordoned off.

Senior Sergeant Richard Whitmore, of Balclutha police, said she was last seen in a distressed state.

"We do hold grave concerns for her safety," he said.

An inquiry team of eight police staff was also working to gather information about Ms Carson's activities over the past few days.

Ms Carson is described as a Caucasian of medium build, 169cm in height, with long dark hair. She was last seen wearing a black fleece top, blue jeans and blue zip-up shoes.

- NZPA