**Body Recovered in Search for Missing Mother Rachel Booth near Northwich**
A body has been discovered as part of the ongoing search for mother-of-three Rachel Booth, bringing a tragic conclusion to a case that has captivated the Cheshire community. Booth, aged 38, was reported missing after last being seen during the early hours of Saturday morning. Police confirmed the discovery on Monday, following a large-scale operation involving multiple search teams.
Rachel Booth was last seen by relatives in Barnton, near Northwich, before being spotted at a petrol station off the A556 at approximately 3:50am. Staff at the establishment recalled Booth purchasing milk and wine, reportedly after jogging for around 45 minutes to reach the location. The nature of her visit did not appear unusual to employees at the time, with one station worker stating she seemed “neither disturbed nor flustered”.
Immediately following her disappearance, Cheshire Police launched an extensive search involving specialist teams, underwater units, and trained dogs. Investigators focused on the Oakmere area, near Delamere Forest, based on information suggesting Booth had travelled towards the village, which lies about eight miles from her home in Barnton. Officers and volunteers scoured lakes and surrounding woodland over several days.
On Sunday afternoon, police revealed that a body had been recovered from a lake in Oakmere. While formal identification procedures have yet to confirm the identity, officers believe the body is that of Rachel Booth “based on the information at hand”. Her nearest family members have been notified and are being supported by specialist officers, who have requested privacy on their behalf during this distressing period.
Cheshire Police stated that, at present, there are no suspicious circumstances connected to Booth’s death. Authorities have confirmed that a file will be prepared for the coroner, in line with legal procedures following the discovery of a deceased person where the cause of death is unclear.
Prior to Sunday’s developments, Superintendent Paul Hughes had described the family and police’s mounting concern for Booth’s welfare. “Our investigation included comprehensive inquiries, with the assistance of partner agencies such as the Underwater Search Team and Cheshire Search and Rescue,” Superintendent Hughes explained. He also acknowledged the cooperation and patience shown by local businesses and residents whilst the search was ongoing.
The public played an integral part throughout the operation, with appeals spread across social media and local news outlets. Officers urged anyone with information on Booth’s movements to come forward, and had made direct appeals to Rachel herself in case she had left of her own accord. The widespread search received significant community attention, highlighting the impact such cases can have on those living in smaller regions.
Booth’s case also draws attention to the importance of community-led support and timely reporting in missing persons investigations. Her last known movements—captured on CCTV and relayed by local staff—provided vital clues that shaped the police search and emergency service response.
As the investigation moves forward under the guidance of the coroner’s office, the focus remains on offering support to Rachel Booth’s loved ones. The family have made it clear they wish to grieve in private and have expressed their gratitude to the community for their concern and understanding.
While Rachel Booth’s disappearance ends in sadness, her case stands as a reminder of the complexities surrounding missing persons cases and the deep sense of loss such events can bring to local communities. Further information will be released by authorities as and when it becomes available, pending completion of the formal identification process and coroner’s inquiries.