Search for Amanda continues

The 21-year-old nursery care assistant from Purton has not been seen since last Thursday when she dropped off her boyfriend at his home in Calne.

An investigation began after her car - a distinctive British racing green Rover Metro with red windscreen wipers - was discovered in the car park at the West Swindon Centre.

At a press conference on Wednesday Detective Chief Superintendent Paul Howlett said: "Despite extensive enquiries it continues to be the case that we are no further forward in obtaining a satisfactory explanation for Amanda's disappearance or indeed her current whereabouts.

"Clearly it continues to be the case that as time passes we become increasingly concerned for her welfare.

"But it continues to be the case that we have no evidence that Amanda has suffered any harm or indeed is no longer alive."

The total number of police officers on the investigation team has increased to 100.

A Swindon man is being held in custody while the search for Amanda continues.

Police have until this morning (Thursday) when they will either have to apply for a warrant of further detention which will enable them to continue questioning him for another 36 hours, or charge or release him.

Det Chief Supt Howlett said: "It continues to be the case that we are conducting searches at a number of locations.

"The location of the searches includes areas that we know that Amanda frequented and other areas that have been identified of being of interest as a result of information that we have obtained.

"We are very keen to learn as much as we can about Amanda and her lifestyle.

"The answer to this mystery could well rest in knowing more about her associates and the places she frequented.

"This is another area where the public can be of significant value to this investigation."

A large police presence will be at the West Swindon Centre today (Thursday) talking to shoppers in an effort to identify and talk to as many potential witnesses as possible.

Police are asking people who were at that location last Thursday to come forward and make contact with officers in case shoppers have vital information that will assist the investigation.

Det Chief Supt Howlett said: "The size of the investigation is increasing each day.

"I am satisfied we are making progress by the way we are going about our business but we are no closer to the answers as to why this has happened or indeed where Amanda is."

Amanda is described as being of mixed race, 5ft 6ins tall, very slim build, brown eyes, black hair cut in a short bob style.

She was last seen wearing a dark blue Ellesse tracksuit top with a red stripe running down each arm and red piping.

There is a pattern between the stripes running down each sleeve.

She was also wearing dark green trousers with a white 'A' printed on the right hand side, white training shoes which have a white upper with white soles and pink piping.

She had a grey handbag with thick cloth handles made from denim material.

Anyone with information should call 01380 735735 or crimestoppers 0800 555111.