The body of an elderly woman has been recovered from North Creek in Ballina

The body is suspected to be that of former Ballina librarian, Margaret Jill Gribble, who was reported missing on Monday.

Ballina resident Margaret Jill Gribble in an image taken on 2019. Photo: Northern Star Archive

While the Ballina community was hoping for a positive outcome, police have confirmed the body of an elderly woman was recovered from North Creek on Wednesday, June 23.

“Officers from Richmond Police District are making inquiries after the body of an elderly woman was located this morning,” a police spokeswoman said.

“About 7am (Wednesday, June 23, 2021), police attended North Creek following reports a body had been located.

“The body has not been formally identified.

“A brief will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.”

The body is suspected to be of former Ballina librarian Margaret Jill Gribble, who was reported missing on Monday.

A police van situated at the end of Camden St, Ballina where officers found an elderly woman's body, believed to that of Margaret Jill Gribble. Photo: Tessa Flemming

Ms Gribble, 88, was last seen leaving a home on Camden Street, Ballina, at about 4pm on Monday, June 21.

A community member reported her missing to officers from Richmond Police District, who commenced inquiries into her whereabouts.

She was described as being of caucasian appearance, about 167cm tall, of a thin build, with short grey hair and brown eyes.

It was believed Mrs Gribble walks with the aid of a walking frame.

Margaret Gribble. Photo: NSW Police