TRIBUTES have poured in for a “lovely” Wee County woman after a body was found the day after she was reported missing.

Officers searching for Tillicoultry’s Joanne Walker discovered a body in Tillicoultry Quarry around 3.30pm on Sunday, July 12.

Although formal identification has yet to take place, the 54-year-old’s family has been informed.

Upon news of a body being found, dozens and dozens of people paid tribute to Joanne on social media.

Writing on Facebook, Tilly resident Gemma Mcdonald said: “Totally heart-breaking, you will be so missed by everyone.”

Fellow resident Donna Edwards said: “Absolutely heart-breaking, such a lovely woman.”
And Edna Walker, from Alva, said: “She was a lovely friendly woman. So sorry to hear this news.”

Joanne was last seen at her home on Stalker Avenue at around 10pm on Friday, July 10.
She was reported missing by her family just after 11pm the next day.

Police issued an appeal for information as to Joanne’s whereabouts early on Sunday (July 12) morning. 

She had not been in contact with her family for some time at that point, which police described as “out of character”.

Tragically, just a few hours after issuing an appeal to find Joanne, officers discovered a body in Tillicoultry.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “Officers can confirm that the body of a woman was found in Tillicoultry Quarry around 3.30pm on Sunday, July 12.

“The family of local missing woman, Joanne Walker, missing since Saturday, July 11, have been made aware of the discovery.

“Formal identification is yet to take place and a post mortem will carried out in due course to establish the exact cause of death. 

The death is not being treated as suspicious.”

For anyone who feels they need someone to talk to, there is a wide range of support services available.

Samaritans 24-hour helpline can be contacted by calling 116 123. The helpline provides people with a safe way to talk about their concerns and feelings.

Alternatively, Breathing Space is also there for anyone feeling overwhelmed.

Their helpline is open 24 hours on weekends, and between 6pm and 2am on weekdays, and can be reached by calling 0800 838587.