English divers join search for missing Scots gran swept away in floods

A group of English divers will join the search for a missing Gran who was swept away by floods.

Hazel Nairn is believed to have been trying to save her dog when she disappeared by the River Don near Monymusk in Aberdeenshire last November.

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It is understood the 71-year-old was trying to get her Westie Ruaridh to safety during extreme rainfall and gale force winds.

During the search, her dog’s body was discovered near the river.

But all efforts to find the pensioner were unsuccessful, although special teams were called in alongside the fire department and coast guard.

Now a group of English divers have confirmed they will travel to Aberdeenshire to help with the search operation.

Beneath the Surface, based in Lancashire, is an underwater sonar search and recovery diving team.

The group wrote in a post on social media: “This weekend we are heading to Monymusk, Aberdeenshire to help the family of Hazel Nairn.”

“Hazel has been missing since November 2022, when she and her dog were tragically swept into the River Don and it burst its banks.

“Unfortunately the body of Hazel’s dog was recovered a few days later but no trace of Hazel was found.

“The river is 30 miles (50 km) from the coast and that, combined with the time Hazel has been missing, makes this search one of our most difficult to date.

“We will receive support from qualified and experienced divers from Aberdeen Diving Services Ltd and Aberdeen BSAC, as well as experienced kayakers who regularly use the river.”

In a statement at the time, Hazel’s daughter Anneka Gray thanked everyone who helped.

She said: “The response from the local community has been amazing.

“Everyone loved my mother and her quirky personality. She has a smile that could light up any room.

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