Two newspapers issue front page apologies to Madeleine McCann's family

Mar 18 2008

Kate McCann, mother of missing Madeleine McCann

TWO NEWSPAPERS have put out front-page apologies to the parents of missing Madeleine McCann, Gerry and Liverpool-born Kate McCann.

A string of stories in the Daily Express and Daily Star, both owned by Richard Desmond, had suggested the McCanns played a part in missing Madeleine's disappearance.

Wednesday's Daily ExpressThe Daily Express and Daily Star say there is no evidence to support this theory and that Kate and Gerry McCann are "completely innocent" of involvement in Madeleine's disappearance.

The apologies came after the McCanns launched a legal action against several papers.

The Express says it was taking "the unprecedented step" of making a front page apology.

"We do so because we accept that a number of articles in the newspaper have suggested the couple caused the death of their missing daughter Madeleine and then covered it up.

"We trust that the suspicion that has clouded their lives for many months will soon be lifted."

The Express adds: "Kate and Gerry, we are truly sorry to have added to your distress. We assure you that we hope Madeleine will one day be found alive and well and will be restored to her loving family."

Both papers say they have made a substantial donation to the Madeleine Fund, which has been strongly supported on Merseyside, where Madeleine's grand-parents live.