Newstalk ZB
A community-led search has taken place in Christchurch today as concerns grow for a missing elderly woman not seen for five days. Valerie Hargrave, 81, was last seen in the area of St John St, Woolston, on Thursday night. Hargrave was wearing a pink cardigan/jersey and is said to be about 1.67m tall and of small build. She walks with a shuffle but is reasonably mobile. Police earlier said she had been last seen in Woolston about 10.30am on Saturday. Today, Lifecare Ambulance Service, a commercial ambulance provider, led a community search for Hargrave. Lifecare Ambulance Service, a commercial ambulance provider, is leading a community search for Hargrave. Around 30 community members were seen searching along the Heathcote River and the surrounding area for Hargrave. Lifecare Ambulance Service director Shane Casbolt said everybody out searching today was “hoping for the best possible outcome”. “That’s why we say, you know, if you’re around, come down,” Casbolt said. “The more eyes, ears, people looking for her, it could be a lot better outcome if we can find her and get her back to her family.” About 30 locals joined today’s search along the Heathcote River in Woolston. Photo / Anna Heath Casbolt said the search focused on New World Woolston, where Hargrave was last seen, and the surrounding streets. “We’re going to be focusing on this area and a lot of the other roads around here,” he said. “Obviously, just stick to public places, don’t go on private property, don’t door-knock, just public areas of interest.” Police are seeking sightings of missing Christchurch woman Valerie Hargrave. Photo / Police Casbolt said any sightings of Hargrave should be reported to police immediately. Around 30 community members were seen searching along the Heathcote River and the surrounding area for Hargrave. Photo / Anna Heath According to the family, Hargrave regularly visited Woolston New World, Ferrymead Woolworths, New Brighton Beach while walking her dog, and the Peacock Fountain in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. “Given the time that has passed since the confirmed sighting of Valerie, her family and police are growing increasingly concerned for her welfare,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie said yesterday. Police say her family are increasingly worried as searches continue in the area. Photo / Anna Heath. Baillie said police did not think Hargrave had travelled far from the Woolston area and called on the public to help find her. “We’d ask the public to help us by checking in and around your properties, particularly in Woolston and the areas immediately surrounding,” he said. “There will be an increased police presence in the Woolston area as officers make inquiries. “Police continue to assess information as it comes in from the public, and remain in contact with Valerie’s family.” If you see anything that may help police find Hargrave, please call the non-emergency number 105, referencing file number 260606/1699.
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