River jump riddle deepens

Sep 17 2009 by Marjorie Kerr, West Lothian Courier

POLICE have made a fresh appeal for information on the person seen jumping into the River Almond two weeks ago.

Officers have revisited the scene of the incident, which happened at a footbridge near Simpson Parkway, at Kirkton Campus, Livingston, at around 9am on Thursday, September 3.

Searches of the area have been carried out with the aid of RAF helicopters and specialist divers, however, no body has been recovered.

Officers have also been visiting homes and businesses nearby to identify anyone with information to help with their enquiries.

Leaflets have also been distributed to motorists in Simpson Parkway, as well as searches being carried out along the River Almond and an appeal being broadcast to Livingston FC during Saturday’s match.

Inspector Stephen Elliot, who is leading the search, said he is keen to hear from anyone with information relating to the incident.

He said: “A week on from this incident we are still trying toidentify the individual, and we remain keen for anyone with information that can help us to come forward.

“Anyone who was in the area of Simpson Parkway at around 9am last Thursday morning, and noticed an individual dressed in dark clothing and wearing a jacket, possibly with the hood up, should contact police.

“Similarly, anyone else with any information that can help our enquiries should also get in touch as soon as possible.”

Anyone with information should contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131, quoting incident number 153 of September 3, 2009.