Full-scale search for missing woman

FIFE: Helicopter and lifeboat comb area after fears for 30-year-old intensify

A full-scale land and sea search was launched along the Fife coast yesterday as fears for a missing woman intensified.

A helicopter and a lifeboat joined search teams combing the area for signs of 30-year-old Nicola O’Hara, who has not been seen since 6pm on Tuesday.

The hunt involving the police, RNLI and the coastguard centred on the area surrounding Seafield beach in Kirkcaldy, close to Ms O’Hara’s home.

Officers said the missing woman’s family was becoming increasingly concerned for her welfare and urged anyone with information to contact them immediately.

Inspector Gordon Anderson from Kirkcaldy police station said: “Nicola’s family and friends have not seen or heard from her since Tuesday evening and are growing increasingly worried for her welfare and, as such, we are keen to locate her as soon as possible to ensure she is safe.

“In addition to police resources, our inquiry is being supported by colleagues from the coastguard and we are very grateful for their assistance.

“Anyone who believes they have seen Nicola since 6pm on Tuesday, or who has information that can assist our investigation, should contact police immediately.”

Local people reported a heavy police presence in the Seafield area from around 9am yesterday

Two police vans and three coastguard jeeps were parked in the car park close to the coastal path between Kirkcaldy and Kinghorn.

As the coastguard search and rescue helicopter circled above, coastguard rescue teams from Leven, Kinghorn and South Queensferry joined the hunt on the ground.

The RNLI lifeboat from Kinghorn was also called and lifeguards normally stationed at Burntisland beach provided additional help.

Ms O’Hara spent many years living in the United States and speaks with an American accent.

She is described as white, 5ft 10in and of slim build.

She has long brown hair and when last seen she was wearing a blue jacket, dark trousers and purple trainers.

Anyone with information can contact Kirkcaldy police station on 101 an quote incident number 531 of August 21.

Pictures: George McLuskie. A rescue helicopter joined the search for Nicola O’Hara, who was last seen on Tuesday.

Police, police dogs and the coastguard are searching for the woman.