Kate and Gerry McCann, who were allegedly stalked by two women last year, are set to attend Saturday’s vigil in Rothley to mark the 18th anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance
Police have been drafted in to protect Madeleine McCann’s parents at a prayer vigil to mark the anniversary of her disappearance.
The dramatic move comes after Kate and Gerry McCann were allegedly stalked by two women – including one who claims she is Madeleine. They pulled out of the vigil in Rothley last year after Polish woman Julia Wandel allegedly turned up unannounced at their home in the village. But they are expected to attend an informal gathering on Saturday to mark the 18th anniversary of their daughter vanishing.
Local vicar Simon Payne confirmed there would be a police presence at the vigil for the first time in eight years.
Officers last attended in 2017, when large crowds gathered to mark the tenth anniversary of Madeleine’s disappearance.
Rev Payne said: “Eighteen years is quite a milestone. People still want to come and remember Madeleine and pray for her family.
“I hope it will be a peaceful occasion with no disturbance.
“I am told there will be a police presence, for Kate and Gerry who are hoping to be there. I am not sure how many officers will be in attendance.”
Kate’s uncle Brian Kennedy, who lives in Rothley, said the vigil will take place at 7pm at the village war memorial.
He said: “I have no idea how many will attend and it has been such a long time, but the local people are still very supportive.
“We are aware of how quickly May 3rd comes round again but we keep on hoping even after such a long time.”
Kate, 57, and Gerry, 56, are due to give evidence in person at the trial of Wandel and co-accused Karen Spragg later this year.
Wandel, 23, is charged with four counts of stalking Madeleine’s family, including her twin siblings Sean and Amelie.
Spragg, 60, of Cardiff, faces one charge of stalking.
Madeleine vanished from the family’s apartment in Praia da Luz while they were holidaying with pals in May 2007.
German paedophile Christian Brueckner was named prime suspect in her disappearance in 2020.
Police found children’s clothing and snaps of youngsters the same as Madeleine hidden in a disused a factory he owned.
They also discovered a sat-nav which showed he had spent time at an isolated Algarve reservoir later searched by divers.
Brueckner is nearing the end of a seven-year sentence for raping a pensioner in Praia da Luz.
He is due to be released in September and denies any involvement in Madeleine’s disappearance.