OFFICERS are continuing their search for a Barnsley woman who has been missing for more than 40 days - and they’ve now taken their appeal in a different direction.

Claire, 44, was last seen in the Silkstone area of Barnsley on Monday, June 24 at the junction of Silkstone Lane and Bull Haw Lane.

The police have not released Claire’s surname.

She was wearing grey trousers, a light grey or mint green jumper and a long, black gilet.

Officers believe Claire is still in the Silkstone area - with a focus on the search being around High Street, Silkstone bypass and Barnsley Road.

Over the weekend, police were joined by Woodhead Mountain Rescue, using specialist equipment such as search dogs and drones during a search in wooded areas of Silkstone.

Officers have also carried out CCTV trawls of the local area, spoken to local business owners, and delivered hundreds of information posters.

This week, police have been in contact with local veterinary practices, and have shared a new appeal through them, as it’s known that Claire enjoys wild camping and there’s hope that she may be recognised by people walking their dogs in the green and wooded areas around Silkstone.

Chief Inspector John Mallows said: “I am moved by the support from Claire’s community as we continue our search for her.

“Our appeals have been shared thousands of times on social media, with many people also commenting words of support.

“We have also received lots of information from members of the public to report suspected sightings, and other information.

“Thank you to everyone who has taken the time to leave these comments, share our appeal and submit information to us - you help is vital in our search.

“We are continuing our efforts at pace to find Claire and ensure she is safe and well.”

Anyone with any information on Claire’s disappearance should contact the police on 101, quoting incident number 440 of June 24.