Police are growing very concerned for a missing woman from Brighton.

Simone Gibson has not been seen since 8am on Tuesday and it is unlike her not to return home.

She has never been missing before.

The 56-year-old was last seen driving away from her home in Hampstead Road near Preston Park.

When her husband returned home at 11.30am, her car was there but but Simone was not.

She was reported missing about 10pm that night.

Simone is a keen runner and walker who enjoys going to the Downs, in particular the area around the Chattri war memorial.

She is black, 5ft 5in tall, of slim build with braided black hair.

Detective Inspector Ian Still said: "Simone enjoys running and walking outdoors, but it is out of character for her not to return home afterwards.

"We are keen to hear from anyone who might have seen her out for a walk or run or who has seen her in the last 48 hours."

A police spokesman said: "The Coastguard helicopter assisted along the shore earlier as part of the search but nothing was found.

"The enquiry continues and anyone with information is asked to contact us via 101@sussex.pnn.police.uk or call 101, quoting Operation Beowulf."

A coastguard spokesman said: “Our helicopter from Lee-on-the-Solent was called at 1.45pm over Brighton.

"Sussex Police were requesting assistance in the search for a missing person.

"They were stood down because weather conditions deteriorated and the crew could not see below 200 feet.

“From what we can gather the helicopter searched the coastline but was stood down for poor visibility at 3pm.

"If the helicopter was seen going to over the sea, the crew had proceeded to do training.”

Anyone who sees her or knows of her whereabouts is asked to contact police on email or call 999 immediately.