A WOMAN last believed to have been near a beach in Christchurch has gone missing.

Dorset Police received a report at 4.36am this morning (March 6) raising concerns for the welfare of Kirsty Galton.

Police said the 38-year-old was believed to be in the area of Highcliffe Beach.

Kirsty is described as five feet one inch tall with a shaved head, but it is believed she may be wearing a dark-coloured wig. She also has tattoos on the knuckles of her right hand and a pierced lip.

Chief Inspector Glen Doran, of Dorset Police, said: “We understand Kirsty has been very upset recently and we are carrying out extensive searches, with support from the coastguard, as we are keen to find her and make sure she is safe.

“Our enquiries indicate she may have travelled in the direction of Bournemouth.

“I would urge anyone with information regarding Kirsty’s whereabouts to please contact us immediately.

“I would also like to make a direct plea to Kirsty if you see this to please contact us or your family and let us know where you are. We just want to make sure that you are all right.”

Anyone with information or knowledge as to Kirsty’s whereabouts should contact Dorset Police via www.dorset.police.uk/contact or by calling 101, quoting incident number 6:40.