Police hope boot clue will solve Iona unidentified body mystery

An image of a hiking boot that belonged to a woman whose body was recovered off the coast of Iona last autumn has been released by police.

The picture is the latest attempt to identify her after the remains washed up on 23 September last year.

Despite what officers describe as "extensive" inquiries and forensic analysis her identity remains a mystery. The investigation has gone beyond Europe to Canada and the Faroe Islands but there are still no answers.

The death is being treated as unexplained and is not believed to be suspicious.

The boots are from a German boot manufacturer called Meindl and are a UK size 8.5. They were only sold by two retailers in the UK and are now discontinued so it is hoped someone may recognise the shoe.

Police have said the woman was white, believed to be around 6ft in height, aged between 45-60, and of medium build. She had no tattoos or obvious scarring from previous medical procedures.

Evidence suggests that she had been in the water for approximately four to six weeks.

Inspector Roddy MacNeill said: "We are still carrying out enquiries into who this woman could be and want to return her to her loved ones.

"We are now liaising with other countries outside of Europe, including Canada and the Faroe Isles, to see if she could be from these areas.

"This boot is unusual and was rarely sold in the UK so we are hoping sharing the image may bring a lead.

"If anyone has information, no matter how insignificant it may seem, please get in touch with us."