Shevaun's family pleads for privacy

Shevaun's parents, Stephen and Joanna, today thanked the press for the help they had given in locating their daughter but requested they be left alone to deal with the events of the last few days.

The statement, issued through Greater Manchester Police, added: "We need time to get our feet back on the ground and feel the only way we can do this is out of the media spotlight.

"We are very concerned any further media attention may jeopardise our daughter's welfare as well as any possible prosecution case and for the sake of Shevaun we ask that the media attention ceases now.

The statement continued: "Once again we would like to thank you all for your support and the concern you've all shown for Shevaun's safety."