The body of a woman has been recovered from a Norfolk river after being spotted by members of the public, in what police believe is a tragic conclusion to a missing person search.
Discovery by Passers-by
The discovery was made on Saturday afternoon in the River Yare at Cringleford. Individuals passing by the river saw the body and immediately alerted the authorities, prompting a swift emergency response to the scene.
Norfolk Police have confirmed the discovery. While formal identification is still pending, the family of 79-year-old Jill Grint has been informed. Ms Grint was reported missing from the Earlham area on Friday, sparking a significant police operation.
Extensive Search Operation
Following her disappearance, police launched a major search effort to locate the pensioner. This operation involved drone teams and specialist search dogs scouring the area. Officers had expressed serious concern for her welfare and released doorbell camera footage to aid the public in the search.
The footage, released on Friday, showed some of Ms Grint's last known movements. She was captured walking along a street using a stick and carrying a distinctive yellow bag.
Police Statement and Coroner's File
In an official statement, Norfolk Police said: "Police can sadly confirm that the body of a woman has been found in the River Yare in Cringleford. The discovery was made this afternoon in the river by members of the public."
The force added a crucial detail for the ongoing investigation: "The death is not believed to be suspicious and a file will be prepared for the coroner." This indicates that foul play is not suspected at this stage. The coroner's inquest will ultimately determine the official cause of death.
The local community, which had rallied during the search, is now coming to terms with the sad outcome. The police have thanked the public for their assistance during the search operation.
