Police are searching an area of Hockley Wood as a cordon is in place in connection with their investigation into the 2017 disappearance of a Southend woman.

Patricia Finnie was 64 when she went missing from Southend on May 11 2017.

She was last seen at around midday in the Bellevue area having gone to visit a friend at an address in Riveria Drive earlier in the day.

Echo: Forensic officer at the sceneForensic officer at the scene (Image: Essex Police)

The circumstances around Patricia going missing has been reviewed by specialist detectives in the years since and Essex Police is now treating her disappearance as a homicide.

Today (June 13) a man in his 70s man has been arrested on suspicion of her murder and he is currently in custody.

Echo: Forensic officers at Hockley WoodsForensic officers at Hockley Woods (Image: Essex Police)

An area of Hockley Woods is also being searched and that work will continue over the next few days.

The force has released images of their search activity at the nature reserve today. 

A cordon is in place with parts of the large woodland, which is owned and managed by Rochford District Council, taped off.

Echo: Police cordon at Hockley WoodsPolice cordon at Hockley Woods (Image: Essex Police)

There are also a number of police vehicles at the scene.

Officers are also carrying out enquiries at a house in Linnet Close, Shoebury, today with forensic officers seen entering the address.

Echo: Police van at the large woodlandPolice van at the large woodland (Image: Essex Police)

Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby, head of major crime at Essex Police, has asked anyone with information about what has happened to Patricia to come forward.

He said: “It is now six years ago but I believe people will have seen Patricia on May 11 and have information which will help give her family the answers they need.

Echo: A forensic officer on the scene carrying branchesA forensic officer on the scene carrying branches (Image: Essex Police)

“If you saw or have any information about what has happened to her I need you to come forward and tell us.

“If you don’t want to speak to us, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and remain 100 percent anonymous.”

Echo: A police officer at the woodlandA police officer at the woodland (Image: Essex Police)

People can report any information through a special online portal which has been set up: https://mipp.police.uk/operation/4201020122Q36-PO1 

To make an anonymous report, contact independent charity Crimestoppers, by visiting their website or by calling 0800 555 111.