Police in Inverness last night issued an appeal for a missing transgender woman who had said that she feared for her safety.

Alan Boyd, who reported feeling “shackled” in a man’s body as she spoke out this week about the bullying she has received in the Highland capital, was last seen in the Church Street area of the city on Tuesday morning.

Police said yesterday that they were “increasingly concerned” for the 44-year-old.

Less than 24 hours before the force issued the appeal she had spoken out alleging that members of the public, as well as staff and residents at city homeless accommodation, had discriminated against her.

She reportedly said that she did not “feel safe” and that she wanted to “break free” from the bullying.

She said she had hidden her true identity for decades and was previously married to a woman.

A police spokeswoman said: “Police in Inverness are appealing for information to trace Alan Boyd, aged 44, who has been reported missing from the city centre.

“Alan is described as 5’7” in height, of slim build with short dark brown hair.

“Alan was last seen in the Church Street area of the city around 9.50am on Tuesday 23rd February 2016 and was wearing blue jeans and a dark jacket and carrying a rucksack.

“Police are increasingly concerned for Alan’s welfare and would urge anyone with information to make contact on 101.”