Detectives investigating the disappearance of a 45-year-old woman two months ago are now treating the case as murder.

The last confirmed sighting of Susan Waring was at a doctor’s surgery in her home town of Darwen, Lancashire, on the afternoon of Wednesday January 16.

On Wednesday, a 46-year-old man was arrested at an address in the town on suspicion of murder.

Searches are also taking place at a property in Blackburn Road.

Detective Chief Inspector Geoff Hurst from Lancashire Police “Susan’s disappearance has now progressed into a murder investigation and I have a team of detectives working hard to find out what has happened to her and where she may be.

“No one has seen or heard from Susan for weeks, which is very unusual.

“She is often in touch with her sister and is an active Facebook user but has not logged on since towards the end of January.

“If you know anything about her disappearance or you think you may have seen her either in the days leading up to her going missing or after January 16 we need to speak to you as soon as possible as you may have vital information.

“Similarly, if you know anything at all you think could help, please let us know.”

Detectives have ruled out previous reported sightings of Ms Waring in  Dumbarton, West Dunbartonshire.

She is described as being about 5ft 5in, of small build, with brown eyes and collar-length, curly, brown hair.

Ms Waring speaks with a north-west accent and has tattoos on both arms and legs, including smiley faces on her legs.

Police said Ms Waring’s family are being supported by family liaison officers.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting incident reference LC-20190320-0963, or alternatively contact independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org.