The family of a Perthshire woman who vanished over a week ago from Galashiels say they are in a “living nightmare” as they plead for her safe return.
Melita Hachey, was last seen in the Borders town on the afternoon of Friday February 21.
The 30-year-old, who previously lived in Aberuthven and Perth city centre, is believed to have travelled to the Leaderfoot area in the Borders via Gattonside or Melrose.
Her family, who have posted “Pray for Melita” posters at their home in Aberuthven, said they just want to know she is safe.
In a statement released through Police Scotland they said: “The last week has been a living nightmare.
“We just want Melita to be with her family, safe.
“Melita, if you are reading this, we need you to know how deeply loved you are, we are lost without you and desperately need you back with us.
“Nothing matters more than that and our arms are open waiting for you to be with us.”
Melita is around 5ft 5in and slim with shoulder-length brown hair styled in a bob.
She was wearing a dark coloured parka style jacket with a fur trimmed hood, blue jeans and white trainers when she was last seen.
Officers are trying to establish how Melita made the journey to Leaderfoot and are appealing to motorists and taxi drivers from the area to think back and consider if they saw the missing woman.
In particular they are asking anyone who has a dash cam in their car to check their footage as it may have captured images of Melita as she made her way to the area.
Inspector John Scott said: “It is out of character for Melita not to be in touch with her family and friends and as time goes on our concern is growing.
“If anyone has any information or knowledge as to Melita’s whereabouts, I would ask them to call us.”
A second woman has also been reported missing from Galashiels.
Emilie Anderson was last seen by her friends on the early hours of Sunday morning at about 2.30am in the Market Street area.
Anyone with information on Melita is asked to contact officers via 101 at Galashiels Police Station.
