CONCERN is rising for the safety of a grandmother who walked out of her home without medication or money.

Winnifred Cunningham, described by police as "a well-known local character" left her home in Ivy Terrace, Craghead, near Stanley at about 3.30pm on Tuesday.

The 49-year-old mother of four has now gone more than 36 hours without the medication she is supposed to take twice a day and has been away from home in atrocious weather conditions.

The divorcee, who is known locally as Winnie Cook, took little money and no food when she left home in the face of mounting personal difficulties. Both police and her close-knit family are becoming increasingly worried.

Inspector Roy Smith, of Stanley police, said: "Mrs Cunningham's family are desperate to know that she is safe and well and want her to get in touch as a matter of urgency. We have made inquiries throughout the area and share the family's concern."

The 5ft 8in grey-haired grandmother was wearing a dark blue Puffa-style jacket and black trousers when she left home, although she is thought to have a change of clothes with her.

Anyone with any information about here whereabouts is asked to ring Stanley police on (01207) 232144.