Underwater searches are under way for a woman who has been missing for three days in a market town.

       Victoria Taylor, 34, was last seen at her home address in Malton, North Yorkshire at around 9am on Monday.

       A specialist underwater search team combed the riverbanks in Malton on Wednesday, and detectives said members of the public should expect to see an increased police presence in the town.

       North Yorkshire Police said it is growing “increasingly concerned” for the welfare of Ms Taylor.

       She was described as white and around 5ft 6in tall, and was last seen wearing blue jeans, a black Adidas original puffer jacket with white stripes down the sleeves and a grey Jack Wills hooded jumper.

       She was also carrying a salmon pink Vans backpack.

       Inspector Leanne Anderson said: “There are a range of enquiries taking place to try and locate Victoria. This is still a missing person enquiry, and the focus of our activity is within the Malton/Norton area.

       “Extensive searches will take place today and I would urge members of the public in the Malton/Norton areas to remain vigilant and report sightings or pass information to police immediately on 101 or 999.”

       Locals shared messages of support on social media after finding out that Ms Taylor is missing.

       One wrote: “Victoria worked at the care home where my Mum spent her final years.

       “She was a real professional and I always felt my Mum (who was suffering from dementia) was 100 per cent safe when Victoria was on shift.

       “She is a truly lovely person and I pray she is found safe and well soon. My thoughts are with her family.”