The body of Rachel Booth, a 38-year-old mother of three from Barnton, Northwich, England, was recovered from a lake in Oakmere following a multi-day search operation by Cheshire Police. Booth was reported missing by her family in the early hours of Saturday, July 19, 2025, after disappearing from her home.
The last confirmed sighting of Booth occurred at 3:50 a.m. on July 19 at Sandiway Garage on the A556 road, approximately five miles from where her family had last seen her. CCTV footage captured her purchasing milk and wine at the Shell petrol station after completing what witnesses described as a 45-minute jog. A gas station worker later told media that Booth appeared normal during the transaction and did not seem disturbed or flustered.
Police launched an extensive search operation that included underwater search teams, police dogs, and Cheshire Search and Rescue personnel. The search focused on the Oakmere area of Delamere, approximately eight miles from Barnton, where authorities believed Booth may have traveled. Wild Shore Delamere, a water sports facility operating near the search area, closed its operations for two days to assist with the police investigation.
On Monday, July 21, search teams recovered a body from a lake in Oakmere. Police initially stated that while formal identification was yet to take place, they believed the body to be that of Booth. Formal identification has since been completed, confirming the deceased as the missing mother.
Cheshire Constabulary indicated there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death, and a file will be prepared for the coroner. Booth’s family has been notified and continues to receive support from specialist officers. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Following the confirmation of Booth’s death, her family released a statement paying tribute to the woman they called “Helena.” The family described her as “a guiding light whose strengths, love, and devotion touched us all.” They emphasized her constant kindness and described her as a loving mother, wife, daughter, and sister who cannot be replaced but will always be present in their hearts. The family expressed that while her absence leaves a space, her smiles are “a memory we will treasure forever.”
The family also thanked all services and businesses that supported Cheshire Police during the search operation. Local residents who knew Booth described her as a pleasant and active member of the community, with one neighbor noting she had three boys at the local school.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, family and friends established a GoFundMe fundraiser to support Booth’s husband, Carl, and their three sons: Alfie, Archie, and Ronnie. The fundraising effort aims to establish a trust fund for the children and donate a portion of the proceeds to a charity supporting individuals and families affected by ADHD, which the family indicated was close to their hearts.
Within 24 hours of the fundraiser’s launch, donors contributed more than $9,000. The fundraising page emphasized that donations would help give Booth the farewell she deserves while supporting her family during their difficult time.
Local superintendent Paul Hughes had previously expressed increasing concern for Booth’s welfare as the search continued. The operation involved multiple agencies working in coordination to locate the missing mother, with search efforts concentrated around Delamere Lake and surrounding areas.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities prepare their report for the coroner’s office. Police continue to support Booth’s family as they navigate the aftermath of their loss.
