BODY FIND IN SEARCH FOR MUM
Missing German tourist’s family told
A BODY was found on a beach yesterday by police searching for a missing German tourist.
The remains have yet to be identified but the family of 51-year-old Claudia Philips – who went missing two days ago – have been informed of the grim discovery near Crail, Fife.
Mum-of-one Claudia was last seen on Tuesday afternoon on the coastal path between the village and Anstruther.
More than 20 police officers had been involved in the search with light planes from the UK Civil Air Patrol team and local lifeboats also assisting.
Claudia was holidaying in the East Neuk with her husband Donald, who is originally from St Andrews.
The couple and their 11-year-old daughter had been visiting family.
They were due to fly home to Darmstadt, Germany, this week and celebrate their 15th wedding anniversary next week.
Donald, 51, said before the body was found: “We come back every year to see loved ones and it was meant to be a nice relaxing week together. She’s never done it before so it’s definitely out of character.”
Claudia was spotted walking in a south-westerly direction along the coast and there were fears she may have got into difficulties.
Chief Inspector Adrian Annandale confirmed the death is currently being treated as unexplained and inquiries are ongoing.
He thanked the public and all the other bodies who took part in the search.
Annandale added: “We have liaised with Claudia’s loved ones and will continue to provide them with all the necessary support.”