McCanns return to Britain

By Darren Staples

ROTHLEY (Reuters) - Kate and Gerry McCann, named as suspects in the disappearance of their four-year-old daughter Madeleine in Portugal, flew home on Sunday insisting they were innocent.

"We played no part in the disappearance of our lovely daughter Madeleine," said Gerry McCann, his voice cracking with emotion on arrival at East Midlands Airport.

Portuguese police said the McCanns' decision to return to Britain will complicate and possibly delay the investigation.

The couple, centre of a tragic mystery that has intrigued millions around the world, stressed they left the resort of Praia da Luz after their four-month ordeal with the full agreement of the Portuguese authorities.

"Portugese law prohibits us from commenting further on the investigation," McCann said in a brief statement on the airport tarmac as the couple clutched their two-year-old twins.

"Whilst it is heartbreaking to return to the UK without Madeleine, it does not mean we are giving up our search," he added.

Portuguese police spokesman Olegario de Sousa said the McCanns may be called back to Portugal at any time.

"Their departure obviously complicates things and can delay the investigation as we will not have as much contact with them (McCanns) as before.