Police are asking people to check sheds and outbuildings and rural areas when out and about for any signs of missing Royston author Helen Bailey.

Helen, 51, was last seen at her home address on Monday, April 11 and reported missing to police on Friday, April 15.

It was reported to police that Helen may have taken her dog – Boris the miniature Daschund – with her, as he is also missing from Helen’s home. It is not known whether they are still together and police are also appealing for any information on his whereabouts.

North Herts Chief Insp Julie Wheatley said: “This is a highly unique case as there is no trace of Helen in the last two weeks and understandably we, her family and her friends remain concerned for her welfare.

“I am extremely grateful to those people who have contacted us with information, however I would like to appeal to the public again for any assistance they can give us.

“I would ask residents to take time to check for signs anyone may have been in a shed, garage, outbuilding or barn in and around the Royston area. I would also encourage people out walking, particularly dog owners to be extra vigilant in case they see anything which could help in our attempts to locate Helen.

“Helen has links to Northumberland and Kent and may have travelled to these or other areas of the country and I would also like to ask people, particularly in the hotel and B&B trade to contact us if you believe Helen may have stayed with you.”

Extensive searches by specially trained officers have now been completed in and around her home, as have searches in Baldock and Weston following reported sightings on April 11 and 12.

Officers are also continuing to view hours of CCTV footage from numerous locations in the local area in the hope they may shed some light on Helen’s movements since she was last seen.

Chief Insp Wheatley added: “Helen’s disappearance is still very much being treated as a missing persons enquiry at this stage and we remain open minded about her whereabouts, given that she had stated she needed some time to herself.

“I would like to make a direct appeal to Helen, if you see these appeals then please do make contact with police to let us know you are ok.

“We are continuing to provide support to Helen’s family and would urge anyone with information which may lead us to Helen to please get in touch.”

Anyone who sees Helen, or knows of her whereabouts, is asked to contact police on 101.