POLICE helicopters have been deployed as efforts to find a missing woman have been stepped up. 

Margaret Tyszkow was last seen on Thursday November 25 between 10am and 10.30am when she was walking towards Chapel Street.

She was wearing a long grey mac, a knee length skirt, and a face mask.

Badsey & Aldington Parish Council confirmed helicopters were out above Badsey yesterday and have been out again today over Offenham.

This came after police renewed their appeal for public help in finding the 68-year-old.

Groups of residents have since been out in search as concerns for her welfare continue to grow amidst Storm Arwen.

Badsey & Aldington Parish Council said: "Margaret has now been missing for over 96 hours. We understand that everyone would like to hear an update. The police are managing this.

"Unfortunately, we don't have any positive updates but wanted to let you know that due to the seriousness of the case we are assured that the police have escalated the case, have deployed, and are still deploying various resources in the search for Margaret.

"You may have seen the search helicopter above Badsey yesterday and today they have been over Offenham.

"The Parish Council has had daily communication with the police and the Clerk has discussed the case with all of the relevant departments within the police in an effort to give them as many details as possible about Margaret.

"As soon as we know more, we will publish the details."

Inspector Al Denny of West Mercia Police said: "We are growing increasingly concerned about Margret given the severe weather and cold temperatures over the weekend and would encourage anyone who may have seen her or know her whereabouts to contact us immediately.

"I would also ask people to check sheds, outhouses and garages in case she has sought shelter during the cold weather."

If anyone has seen Margaret or knows of her whereabouts, please call 999 quoting incident 537i of November 25.