Police dogs are helping officers search woodland near Tunbridge Wells as part of a renewed investigation into the disappearance of a woman who went missing almost 20 years ago.

Margaret Costen walked out of what was then Pembury Hospital on February 23 1997.

The 54-year-old was a voluntary inpatient and it is believed she wandered into nearby woodland.

Police searched at the time and despite some alleged sightings she was never found.

Officers are now searching woodland next to Tonbridge Road, between the current Tunbridge Wells Hospital and Notcutts Garden Centre.

Inspector Ray Quiller said: "It has been a very long time since Margaret was reported missing and these woodland searches will be about trying to find any evidence or clues, which will help us understand what happened to her.

"Kent Police periodically reviews files around missing people and a review of this incident has led us to believe that by using modern search techniques and expertise we have an opportunity to survey areas Margaret may have walked through with more accuracy than ever before.

"Over the next two weeks we will be assisted by our colleagues at the Metropolitan Police, who will be bringing with them specialist detection dogs.

"If it is the case that Margaret walked away from the hospital and unfortunately didn’t find her way out of the woodland we are searching, these dogs are trained to lead us to any existing human remains."

Officers are also continuing efforts to trace any possible surviving relatives of Margaret and any family or friends are asked to get in touch.

Insp Quiller added: "Our inquiries have shown that it appears unlikely there are any surviving relatives of Margaret, however it is possible she had connections with other people who may still be able to help us with our inquiries. I would ask any friends or extended family members to please get in touch with us."

Anyone who can help is asked to call officers on 01622 604100.