Woman missing for five weeks could be in Blackpool

Ruth Smith, 42, has been missing for almost five weeks, and has not been found despite several previous public appeals.

Officers say they have been working around the clock to find Ruth, from Aldridge in the West Midlands, and now believe she may be in the resort.

Det Insp Jackie Nicholson, from Walsall police station, said: “Ruth has never been missing before, and we are desperately concerned.

“I would appeal directly to Ruth to please get in touch and let us know you’re ok.

“I also want to thank everyone who is sharing our appeal for their help so far.”

Ruth was described as white, 5ft1in tall, with straight shoulder-length brown hair, of slim build, with glasses she may not have been wearing.

At the time of her disappearance, around 10.20am on Friday, April 15, Ruth was wearing a thin black coat, had a cream and khaki coloured satchel, and an umbrella.

West Midlands police said she is well known in her local area, and described her as a ‘woman of routine’ who had a passion for walking.

Ruth has never been missing before, and may have been sleeping rough, officers said.

Information can be reported to the police by calling 101, or charity Missing People on 116 000.