Police are concerned for the welfare of a woman and want to speak with her in connection with an on-going investigation.

Officers have released an image of the woman they are trying to trace, but are wanting to make clear she is not suspected of any offences.

The CCTV image of the woman was captured at The Mall shopping centre in Blackburn, at about midday on Thursday December 12.

Officers are concerned for her welfare and are asking for the public’s help to find out who she is so they can make contact with her.

They are also asking the woman herself to come forward and contact police if she sees the appeal.

No further details of the investigation can be released at this stage due to operational reasons.

Detective Constable Natasha Bennett, of East police, said: “We are urgently asking for the public’s help in identifying the woman in the photographs.

"She is not being investigated and does not need to provide or assist with evidence; however, there are a number of factors requiring the need to identify her.

“If anyone knows who she is or where she may be, I would ask them to contact police as soon as they can.

"I would also appeal to the woman herself to get in touch with us if she sees this appeal.”

Anyone with information should email 5016@lancashire.pnn.police.uk