MADELEINE: Parents still live in hope 14 years on
MADELEINE McCann’s parents say they still hope one day to be reunited with her as they marked the 14th anniversary of her disappearance yesterday.
In just a few days, on May 12, there will be another painful date too – her 18th birthday.
But Kate and Gerry tried to stay upbeat as they posted an online message to their supporters on the Find Madeleine website and Facebook page.
“This year it is particularly poignant as we should be celebrating Madeleine’s 18th birthday. Enough said.
“As we have said repeatedly, we need to know what has happened to our lovely daughter, no matter what.We are very grateful to the police for their continued efforts.
“We hang on to the hope, however small, that we will see Madeleine again.” The couple from Rothley, Leics, added: “We still receive so many positive words and good wishes despite the years that have gone by. It all helps and for that we are truly grateful – thank you.”
Their post was accompanied by a picture of their daughter with the words: “Thank you for not giving up on Madeleine.” An outdoor prayer gathering to mark the date has been cancelled for a second year because of Covid. Three-year-old Madeleine vanished from a holiday apartment in Portugal’s Praia da Luz on May 3, 2007. UK police have requested funding to carry on the £12.5million search for her. Jailed paedophile and rapist Christian Brueckner, 44, from Germany, is the prime suspect. He denies any involvement.