Madeleine McCann’s parents shared a message on the campaign to find the missing girl which left followers in tears. The post today came on what would have been a significant birthday for Maddy who disappeared 17 years ago.

Kate and Gerry revealed they were “still looking” as they acknowledged her milestone 21st. The post was shared on the official Find Maddie Campaign Facebook page today (Sunday, May 12). The couple wrote: “Happy 21st birthday Madeleine. Still missing, still missed, still looking.

A photograph of a smiling Madeleine was shared alongside the message. Madeleine, who disappeared in Portugal when she was just three years old, was wearing a white sun hat and pink dress in the snap.

Followers were moved by the image and birthday. One said: “Forever hoping and praying that Madeleine will be returned to her loving family … Happy Birthday sweet Madeleine xx” Another wrote: “This brought tears to my eyes. What a nightmare. I think we’ve all probably be thinking and praying a little more for Maddie and her family today.”

A person added:” Still in our thoughts, still in our search, still holding you close to us all. Happy 21st x.” Madeleine, from Rothley in Leicestershire, vanished on May 3 2007 while on holiday with her parents in Praia da Luz, Portugal, after they left the then three-year-old and her younger twin siblings asleep in their apartment while they went out to dinner with friends nearby.

In a post on the anniversary of her disappearance on May 3 Kate and Gerry said: “It’s 17 years since Madeleine was taken from us. It’s hard to even say that number without shaking our heads in disbelief. Whilst we are fortunate in many ways and able to live a relatively normal and enjoyable life now, the ‘living in limbo’ is still very unsettling. And the absence still aches.

“Your support continues to encourage us and bolsters our strength to keep going. We know the love and hope for Madeleine and the will to find her, even after so many years, remains, and we are truly thankful for that.

“Thank you again for remembering Madeleine and all missing children. Kate and Gerry”