Pensioner found after three-day police hunt

Joyce Crouthers, of Honeysuckle Close, Gosport was tracked down by police on Saturday after she went missing from her home on Wednesday.

A statement on Hampshire Police’s Facebook page on Saturday read: ‘We are happy to report that the missing Gosport woman Joyce Crouthers had been found safe and well this afternoon.

‘Thank you for all your shares and interest in this appeal – we really appreciate it.’

The 78-year-old had last been seen at around 4.50pm, prompting a widespread search, that involved the use of an air support helicopter on Thursday night as police scoured the Lee-on-the-Solent area.

Earlier on the Saturday, Joyce’s daughter Julie Bean put out an emotional appeal through the police.

She said that Joyce, who has dementia, had left the house without taking her medication and that she does not like the dark or public transport.

The News readers took to Facebook to show their happiness about the news.

Shelley Hatt said: ‘ I do love a happy ending to these types of stories. So glad she is now home safe and well.’

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