Officers are being as "transparent as they can be" in what is an "incredibly sensitive and complex case" as the search for Nicola Bulley approaches its fourth week, Lancashire's police and crime commissioner has said.
Andrew Snowden made the remarks after police revealed
Ms Bulley had suffered "significant issues with alcohol" which were "brought on by her ongoing struggles with the menopause".
Mr Snowden said: "The unprecedented media and public interest in this case, whilst welcomed for appeals for information, is challenging for the family and friends of Nicola and officers and police staff dealing with unsubstantiated rumours and speculation on a daily basis.
"I'd like to thank all members of the public who have provided helpful information to Lancashire Police."
Mr Snowden's comments also come as Wyre Council leader Michael Vincent told Sky News there are "lessons to be learned" for police searching for Ms Bulley.
He added: "But I think they've done their best in difficult circumstances."
Talking about the personal information about Ms Bulley revealed by police, Mr Vincent said: "That was put out there with the knowledge of Nicola's family because other people were seeking to make that information public.
"That wasn't the police's decision, their hand was forced, should they have done it? Again, with the benefit of hindsight, that should be looked into in future cases."
Officers are being as transparent as they can be in what is an incredibly sensitive and complex case as the search for Nicola Bulley approaches its fourth week, Lancashire's police and crime commissioner has said.
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