The 16th anniversary of Madeleine McCann’s disappearance was marked by her parents, Kate and Gerry McCann, who released a statement that expressed their ongoing heartache.
In a show of solidarity and remembrance, Madeleine’s younger sister, Amelie, appeared at a candlelight vigil with her parents in Rothley, Leicestershire.
The event was attended by around 70 locals and supporters, many of whom lit candles in the hope of Madeleine’s safe return.
At the gathering, Amelie paid tribute to her older sister, saying that it was a “nice” occasion, but acknowledging that it was also a sad one.
With the encouragement of her friend Georgina, she joined in a series of mantras, such as “never never give up,” “leave no stone unturned,” “don’t forget about me,” and “still missing, still missed” for Maddie.
Kate and Gerry did not address the group, but exchanged warm pleasantries with everyone present.
Rev. Rob Gladstone, the vicar of the local parish church, offered words of encouragement to supporters, saying, “We are here this evening to show our loving concern for Madeleine and for all young children who have been taken away from their families against their will. We are also here to encourage one another to keep up hope and pray for a renewal of strength even after this long time.”
In addition to the candlelight vigil, Kate and Gerry released a poem by Clare Poland on the official Find Maddie website to mark the anniversary of Madeleine’s abduction. The poem, entitled The Contradiction, talks about being close to someone who is not there and the McCanns said that it “strongly” resonated with them. They also thanked their supporters and said that they were still waiting for a “breakthrough” in the ongoing investigation.
Brian Kennedy, Kate’s retired head teacher, shared some comforting words for the couple and Maddie, saying, “Kate and Gerry are very moved by the size of the group of people who turned up. After all these years, people still assemble – some come every time and some are new and we are very grateful. 16 years without someone and still not knowing where they are is a very long time. Even if it was bad news, in some ways, it would give us some closure. But with no closure, there is still hope.”
Despite the lack of progress in the case, the McCanns continue to hold out hope that Maddie will be found. The message “still very much missed” remains on the official Find Maddie website as a testament to their unwavering love for their daughter.
Madeleine McCann’s Sister Speaks Publicly for First Time on Anniversary of Disappearance
