Concerns have been raised over the welfare of a woman who went missing after a hospital visit.

Sandra Coulter, 46, left Wishaw General Hospital around 1.45pm on Wednesday and has not been seen since.

Ms Coulter, from Shotts, is said to have been dealing with "personal issues", and left the hospital before receiving any treatment.

She is described as white, of heavy build, with grey unkempt hair and when last seen was wearing light beige combat trousers with an elasticated bottom, a white polo shirt and navy/dark blue football top, possibly a Rangers top.

Inspector Susan McGinlay is appealing to the public for help in tracing Ms Coulter.

She said: "Sandra, who has never been missing before, has been dealing with some personal issues just now and had gone to the hospital this afternoon with her brother, however, she left prior to any treatment.

"Local officers have been checking the area in and around the hospital grounds and home address and speaking to her boyfriend and family but so far there have been no further sightings of her.

"She has friends and family in the Larkhall and Rutherglen areas but they have not seen or heard from her today either.

"We have been checking with local bus companies as there is a suggestion that she may try and travel to England, but that has not been confirmed."

Anyone who spots Ms Coulter is urged to call Motherwell Police Station on 101.