Libby Squire: Police search waterways near River Hull for missing 21-year-old university student

Police scour stream on inflatable rafts as parents make emotional appeal for information

Humberside Police’s specialist marine unit is searching Barmston Drain in Hull for missing student Libby Squire as the hunt for the 21-year-old woman entered its fourth day.

More than 200 volunteers and coastguard rescue teams have been involved in the search for the University of Hull student, last seen by friends getting into a taxi near the Welly Club music venue in Beverley Road around 11pm on Thursday night.

On Monday, a police team used inflatable rafts to scour a stretch of the artificial drainage stream near the River Hull, which runs alongside Beverley Road.

Another group of officers have continue to search bins and gardens in Wellesley Avenue – where Libby lived – looking for any clues of her disappearance.

Investigators have ruled out items found close to where Miss Squire was last seen. Tools and some lip gloss were retrieved near Beverley Road, but Chief Superintendent Phil Ward said: “These items are not connected to this investigation and at this time there isn’t any link.”

At a press confrence on Monday afternoon, police clarified the timeline of her movements shortly before her disappearance. Police believe Miss Squires got out of the cab near her home in Wellesley Avenue shortly at 11.29pm, but did not enter the property.

“She is then seen on CCTV on Beverley Road at 11.40pm, and seen near to a bench close to the bus stop and junction with Haworth Street, when a motorist stops and offers her help,” said Chief Superintendent Phil Ward.

“We believe she may have been in this area until around 12.09am, and are now continuing searches in and around the neighbouring roads and streets as well as viewing further CCTV footage.”

The force previously said the male motorist had “really helped out” with its enquiries.

Police search for missing student Libby Squire on Barmston Drain (PA)

Police also revealed they had discovered the student’s mobile phone during a search of her home, but it has not provided “any further insight as to where she may be or her movements that night”.

Her parents Lisa and Russell Squire made an emotional appeal for help on Monday.

In the statement filmed by Humberside Police, Mr Squire described his daughter as “our kind, thoughtful, beautiful girl, who is loved by so many people”.

Officers search Wellesley Avenue in Hull (PA)

He asked people to come forward with any information “no matter how small or irrelevant it may be”.

Ms Squire added: “Libby, my darling pie, we just want to know that you are safe. Please get in touch with us any way you can.

“The whole family is missing you, especially me and your dad, your sisters and your brother. I miss you so much it’s breaking my heart not knowing where you are. I love you.”

In a statement, the University of Hull said: “We are working closely with Humberside Police to support their search for Libby and offering support to Libby’s family at this distressing time.”

Miss Squire is described as 5ft 7in tall with long dark brown hair. She was wearing a black leather jacket, black long-sleeved top and a black denim skirt with lace.

Anyone with any information which may help police in the search can call 101 quoting log number 29 of 1 February 2019.