OFFICERS searching for a missing Purbeck woman are appealing for help from the public to find her.

Hazel Penfold, aged 71, was last seen at the address where she had been staying in Swanage at around 6am on Monday, March 15.

Police say she is believed to have got in a taxi from Wareham to Poole train station, where she was dropped off at around 11.30am.

Chief Inspector Andy Bell, of Dorset Police, said: “Hazel is a vulnerable individual and we are keen to locate her as we are becoming concerned for her welfare.

“I would urge anyone with information as to her whereabouts – or who sees a woman matching the description given – to please contact us.

“Finally, I would like to appeal directly to Hazel if you see this – please contact us and let us know where you are as we just want to make sure you are safe.”

Hazel is described as white, around five feet eight inches tall and of medium build with red or orange shoulder-length hair.

She is believed to have been wearing a pink anorak and black trousers.

Hazel sometimes wears glasses.

Anyone with information or knowledge as to Hazel’s whereabouts is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 15:234.