UPDATE: Laura van Marle, who went missing during ‘escorted leave’ from an enforced hospital stay yesterday, has been found.

Avon and Somerset Police said she was found on Saturday morning.

“We are pleased to confirm that Laura Van Marle has been located following an earlier public appeal to find her,” a spokesperson said.

“We’d like to thank everyone who contacted us with information or shared our appeal.”

A WOMAN convicted of manslaughter and issued with an indefinite hospital order has gone missing from Somerset.

Laura Van Marle was made the subject of the order by a court in 2021 after admitting manslaughter.

She had been detained at a secure hospital in Wellington, Somerset, but made off on foot after threatening a member of hospital staff with a weapon while being on ‘escorted leave’.

Avon and Somerset Police urged people not to approach the 43-year-old, who made her escape at around 5.10pm on Friday (August 11).

She is described as white, about 5ft 7ins tall and slim, with blonde hair.

She was last seen wearing a white vest top, grey denim shorts and black trainers, but may have changed her clothes.

Helicopter and dog searches were carried out in the Wellington area, but police added she is known to walk long distances and may have left the area.

“She may also be travelling on public transport, and has links to Herefordshire,” a spokesperson said.

“Laura is considered to be in mental health crisis and may pose a risk to herself or others.”

Members of the public are urged not to approach her, but to call 999 straight away quoting reference 5223194035, or 101 with any other information, giving the same reference.