Search dogs found body of missing Jessica Hardy in Sheffield woodland

Jessica Hardy, 37, was last seen in the Handsworth area shortly before 9pm on Wednesday. Her partner reported her missing immediately afterwards.

On Saturday police confirmed a body, believed to be that of Jessica, had been found. At that stage formal identification had not taken place but her family were being supported by specially trained officers, police said.

Tributes have poured in for the ‘lovely, caring and friendly’ woman since the news was announced.

Edale Mountain Rescue Team confirmed they helped South Yorkshire Police search for Jessica in the Woodhouse area from 12pm on Saturday, 27 June. Six dog teams from Mountain Rescue Search Dogs England also helped with the search.

An Edale Mountain Rescue Team spokesperson said: “The search was centred around scrub and Woodland areas identified by the police as a priority to search.

“Unfortunately, a body was found by one of the search dogs after a couple of hours of searching. The team then assisted the police in transporting the deceased to the road.”

Jessica was from Derbyshire and also had close links to Eckington.

The spokesperson added: “Our thoughts and condolences to family and friends at this sad time.

“Thanks to South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue for the use of their facilities from where we coordinated our search.”