THE husband of a grandmother who went missing three weeks ago told how he is growing “desperately anxious” as he urged her to return home.

Patricia Finnie, 64, of Linnet Close, Shoebury, had been to visit a friend in Riviera Drive, Southend, on Thursday, May 11. She left sometime between 12.45pm and 1.15pm.

She has not been seen since and has not been in touch with any family members or friends.

She was reported missing that evening after she failed to return home.

Despite viewing CCTV footage, tracing bank records and speaking to relatives and friends, police have no idea where Mrs Finnie is. They are urging the public to help look out for her.

In an emotional press briefing at Southend Police Station yesterday, Mrs Finnie’s husband Gordon, 65, made a heartfelt appeal for his wife to make contact.

He was supported by his son Matthew, his daughter Ruth and grandson Ashley Dalton.

Mr Finnie, who has been married to Pat for 45 years and has lived with her in Shoebury for 30 years, said: “I am extremely anxious for her wellbeing.

“Immediate family and friends all know and are worried sick and missing her badly.

“The police are doing everything that they can to help.

“Following two previous appeals through Facebook, many acquaintances and old friends have been in touch and are looking out for Pat but we haven’t heard much.

“Our neighbours have been very good and shown sympathy and support, which has made life so much more bearable for us all.

“These have been the worst three weeks of our lives.

“Police have been very tactful and sensitive and have shown real understanding of how we are feeling.

“All I can say on a personal basis is that I would implore Pat and anybody who has seen her or thinks that they recognise her to inform the police immediately.

“Pat, if you are seeing this, I am desperately anxious to know that you are safe and well. Please contact your mother, me or the police, so that you can return safely to your family and work out any issues that may be troubling you. I love you.”

Mrs Finnie does not drive, so she may be using buses and trains to get around.

A woman believed to be Mrs Finnie was spotted on CCTV walking past Pembridge Court and towards Belle Vue Road, Southend, at about 1.45pm on the day she went missing.

Mrs Finnie volunteers in her local community, including at a befriending service for elderly people.

She has links to the Angus area of Scotland. Some of her favourite places to visit are Dedham, Flatford, Brighton, Birmingham and Cornwall.

Locally, she enjoys trips to Hockley Woods, Priory Park, Southchurch Hall Park and Churchill Gardens.