POLICE searching for a Southampton woman who disappeared more than two years ago are examining items found under the pier next to Mayflower Park.
Mother-of-three Joanne Sheen - affectionately known as Little Jo - was 44 when she was reported missing by her family on February 22 2020.
The last corroborated sighting of Jo was on December 5, 2019, when she was seen travelling from Fareham to Southampton with a friend.
Today police have revealed details of a new development in the case.
A spokesperson said: "Information recently came to light which led us to search under the pier next to Mayflower Park.
"Last month, officers from our marine unit searched the area for several hours.
"Items including trainers and a handbag were found and will be examined further to establish whether or not they are of relevance to this investigation."
In 2020 police arrested five people on suspicion of conspiracy to murder. They were questioned by officers but no further action was taken against them in relation to Jo’s disappearance.
The following year Jo's daughters, Hayley and Layla, led a procession of around 30 people from the White Swan off Mansbridge Road to nearby Riverside Park.
They released balloons and cast flowers into the River Itchen.
Speaking at the time Layla, 23, told the Daily Echo: "She’s not been forgotten about. There’s loads of people that love her.
“The response we’ve had from friends and family has been overwhelming. There are a lot of people just like us that are confused and don’t know where she’s gone."
DI Toby Elcock is leading the investigation into Jo's disappearance.
Referring to the search carried out under the pier he said: "We hope this shows we remain dedicated to finding out what happened to Jo and that we will pursue all lines of enquiry available to us.
“Someone out there must know what happened to her.
"Please get in touch with us – no matter how insignificant you think the information you have might be, it could be that crucial piece in the puzzle that leads us to Jo.”
Anyone with information can call Hampshire police 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting Operation Blackboard or 44200068330.
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