Everton mark Madeleine McCann's disapperance with symbolic light switch-on

May 3 2008 by Liza Williams, Liverpool Daily Post

Madeleine McCann in Everton kit _320

AHEAD of Everton FC’s symbolic light switch-on to mark the anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance, chairman of the football club Bill Kenwirght said: “I simply cannot begin to imagine what Madeleine’s parents have been through these past 12 months.

“They have lived the nightmare of every mum, of every dad, and emerged with their dignity intact and their belief unshaken.

“I remember vividly the day Madeleine went missing and I will never forget the moment, two days later, when I saw that beautiful photograph of her in an Everton shirt.

“Turning on Goodison Park's floodlights is just our way of showing that everyone connected with Everton Football Club – players, directors, staff and supporters – is still thinking of Madeleine and still praying for her safe return.

“Don't forget about Madeleine McCann. Keep looking for her. Keep believing.”

The club is joining a campaign entitled Light The Way Home as a gesture of support for the little girl’s family and friends.

The lights at an empty Goodison Park will be switched on from 9.30pm to 10pm on Saturday night, exactly one year after Madeleine vanished from her family’s holiday apartment in Portugal.

Helping to Find Madeleine, an independent group of supporters of the McCanns, is urging people around the world to light a candle, shine a torch or turn on a porch lamp at this time.

Homes across Merseyside are expected to take part by lighting tea lights or candles, and Kate and Gerry are urging neighbours in Leicestershire to do the same. Tea lights will also be at the back of the church during tonights mass for people to light.