Fiona pender search stood down

Gardai have confirmed a search for the remains of missing Offaly woman Fiona Pender has been stood down.

The 25-year-old hairdresser and part-time model was seven and a half months pregnant when she was last seen at her flat on Church Street in Tullamore in August of 1996.

Garda, who have long suspected she was murdered, began searching a 200 square metre woodland site at Capard, Rosenallis in Co Laois on December 5. The search was sparked by fresh information.

However, that search was stood down yesterday after failing to yield any results. It's understood Fiona's mother Josephine and brother John have been informed of developments. 

Anyone who has information regarding Fiona's disappearance is asked to contact Tullamore Garda Station on 057 93 27600, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111 or any garda station.