Madeleine parents describe week of devastation
The father of missing Madeleine McCann tonight spoke publicly of the “tidal wave” of devastation wreaked by the abduction of his daughter, whose fourth birthday it is today.
Gerry McCann told villagers at a special Mass that he and his wife Kate had drawn “strength, hope and courage” from friends, family, the community in the village Praia da Luz, at home, across Europe and even around the world.
Speaking with emotion but determination he said: “We are looking forward to the day when Madeleine returns to us as a joyous one.”
He revealed that despite their own anguish, the couple had been able to help friends, family and others around them remain strong during a week of turmoil.
He recounted some of the emotions he and wife Kate had been through in the past week.
But he said that, following a special vigil for Madeleine at the village church last night: “We walked out of this church believing that we will see Madeleine soon and she will be safe and well and we will continue to hope.”
The couple were showered with kisses, hugs and flowers as members of the congregation queued to greet them at the end of the service.
As they finally left they were greeted by children holding birthday balloons and a crowd of villagers who applauded as they left.
