Concerns are growing for an “inspirational” lecturer from Moray who has not been seen for two days.
Valerie Spark, who teaches social sciences at Moray College UHI, has been reported as missing to police.
The 46-year-old mother was last seen leaving her home in Hamilton Drive in the Bishopmill area of Elgin at about 10.15am on Wednesday.
When Mrs Spark was last seen she was in a black Vauxhall Astra with registration VK66 JXN. Yesterday police released an image of the car to aid inquiries.
Police believe Mrs Spark may have driven through New Elgin towards the A941 Rothes road after she was last seen.
It is understood that her family had brief contact with her later on Wednesday but her whereabouts remain unknown and police are continuing to appeal for information.
Officers say concerns are growing for the welfare of the lecturer and have asked for her to let officers know she is safe and well.
When Mrs Spark was last seen she was wearing a light blue top and jeans. She has shoulder-length brown hair and is about 5ft 7 tall.
Inspector Steven McDonald said: “There are still no sightings of Valerie since concern was raised and we are anxious to trace her as soon as possible.
“It is believed Valerie may have travelled south through New Elgin sometime after 10.15am and possibly in the direction of the A941.
“I am also appealing for anyone who has dashcam footage and were on this route around this time to check it and contact us.
“Similarly, if Valerie is reading this, let us know you are safe and well.”
Mrs Spark won Moray College UHI’s “inspirational lecturer” award in January for her work during the first semester of the current academic year.
Her students nominated her for the prize by praising her enthusiasm for the subject as well as her dedication for making learning easy and enjoyable while going the “extra mile” to support her classes.
Many social media messages of support sent to the police have praised the lecturer’s work caring for students as well as providing valuable support to help them through their course.
Anyone who know the whereabouts of Mrs Spark or who has information that could help her be traced should contact police by calling 101.
