Madeleine McCann probe police seek more cash

Madeleine McCann disappeared while on holiday with her parents in Portugal in 2007 (Steve Parsons/PA) Credit: PA Archive/PA Images

Scotland Yard bosses have applied for more funding to continue the hunt for Madeleine McCann.

There was speculation over the future of the investigation when it emerged that funding would run out at the end of September.

But the Home Office has now confirmed that it is considering an application from the force for more cash.

In a blog published on Wednesday, it said: “We have received and are considering a request from the Metropolitan Police Service to extend funding for Operation Grange until the end of March 2019.

“The Home Office maintains an ongoing dialogue with the MPS regarding funding for Operation Grange.”

Madeleine was three when she was last seen on holiday with her parents in Praia da Luz in Portugal in May 2007.

Car bumper stickers were handed out in Praia Da Luz, Portugal, after a special church service to mark the 10th anniversary of Madeleine McCann’s disappearance Credit: Steve Parsons/PA

Scotland Yard launched its own investigation, Operation Grange, into her disappearance in 2013 after a Portuguese inquiry failed to make any headway.

UK detectives were granted an extra £150,000 in March to continue the probe, to cover until the end of September.

Operation Grange has cost £11.6 million so far.