Water rescue teams have joined the search for a missing Scots schoolgirl in Galashiels.
Kaitlyn Easson, 11, has been reported missing after she vanished from the town at around 5.30pm on Sunday sparking a huge search mission. Kaitlyn lives in the Langlee area of Galashiels and was last seen in the Gala Park area.
Her desperate family have been out searching in the town through the night and there are significant concerns for her welfare. Volunteers, mountain rescue, and Borders water rescue team are now all helping police look for her.
It's understood they are concentrating on areas between the town centre and her home in Langlee, including woods along the River Tweed. Divers are also said to have been spotted in the Gala Water at Netherdale.
Speaking to the Record, family friend Nicola Forrest said: "We are all worried sick. They are searching the Boleside area of Galashiels at the moment and the helicopter is out too.
"Her mum can't physically speak just now as she's so upset and stressed. We have no idea where she could be, it is totally out of character for Kaitlyn. We are just trying to stay positive."
It understood Kaitlyn was last seen on CCTV at a Starbucks in the town at 6.15pm. She has not been seen since.
Her phone is off and enquiries are ongoing to trace her. Fire and rescue teams with boats have sealed off an area on the banks of the River Tweed at Galafoot.
Meanwhile volunteers are searching the banks of the River Tweed, opposite Abbotsford House. Police have appealed for information.
Kaitlyn is described as being around 5ft 2 in in height, of slim build, with long blonde hair. When last seen she was wearing a white jumper, brown trousers and boots.
Inspector Robbie Noble said: “This is very out of character for Kaitlyn and we are growing increasingly concerned for her.
“Our enquiries are ongoing to trace her and I am appealing for anyone who has seen Kaitlyn or who has any information on her whereabouts to contact us.
“We would also appeal to Kaitlyn herself to get in touch to let us know she is safe.”
Anyone who may have seen Kaitlyn, or who has any information on her whereabouts, is urged to contact Police Scotland via 101 quoting incident number 3314 of February 5.
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