The family of missing Nicola Bulley have opened up about the "speculation and rumours into her private life," which they have claimed are overshadowing the search operation for the mum of two.
On January 27, Bulley, a 45-year-old mortgage adviser, vanished while taking her springer spaniel Willow along a river towpath in St Michaels on Wyre.
Bulley, a mum of two, had dropped her daughters, aged six and nine, at school prior to heading for a walk on the day in question. Although police have scoured the area and explored several lines of inquiry, including forensic experts searching the river, no trace of Nicola has yet been found.
In response to a press conference held on Wednesday by Lancashire Police where it was revealed that Nicola was deemed a "high-risk" missing person, the missing 45-year-old’s family released a statement.
The police force has been criticised for disclosing that the mum-of-two suffered "some significant issues with alcohol" in the past. In response to this, the family said that public focus has moved from finding Nicola to discussing her private life.
The statement, released through police, read: "It has now been three weeks since Nikki went missing. We, as a family, believe that the public focus has become distracted from finding Nikki, and more about speculation and rumours into her and Paul's private life.
"As a family, we were aware beforehand that Lancashire Police, last night, released a statement with some personal details about our Nikki.
"Although we know that Nikki would not have wanted this, there are people out there speculating and threatening to sell stories about her. This is appalling and needs to stop.
"The police know the truth about Nikki and now the public need to focus on finding her. The public focus has to be on finding her and not making up wild theories about her personal life.
"Nikki, we hope you are reading this and know that we love you so much and your girls want a cuddle. We all need you home. You can reach out to us, or you can contact MissingPeople.org.uk."
READ NEXT:
Horror on motorway as Today FM presenter exposed to 'six willies' during trip
Boxers form guard of honour at funeral of youngest Galway pier tragedy victim
Irish Ryanair passengers warned to expect 'disruption' as airport workers strike
Exact date brutal Arctic blast could freeze Ireland after warmest day of year
'The Monk met IRA men out of fear for his family' - Rowan on secret meetings
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter
