Mum of missing Sheffield boy Ben Needham reflects on 35 years of 'heartbreak and search for truth'
“Today marks 35 agonising years since my beautiful son, Ben, vanished on the island of Kos”
The search for a Sheffield boy who went missing when he was less than two years old has entered its 35th year - with his family still desperate for answers.
Ben Needham was only 21 months old when he vanished on the Greek island of Kos in July 1991.
On the day Ben disappeared, he was playing outside a farmhouse his grandfather was renovating while his mum, Kerry, worked at a nearby hotel.
Today (July 24), it is 35 years since Kerry has seen her son - and she still continues her search, raising funs to hire a private investigator to find out what happened all those years ago.
A documentary about the disappearance is planned.
On the anniversary, Kerry said: “Today marks 35 agonising years since my beautiful son, Ben, vanished on the island of Kos. Thirty-five years of heartbreak, unanswered questions, and a relentless search for the truth.
“I’ve been back to Kos recently ahead of the upcoming documentary release, and while it is always deeply emotional, my purpose remains as clear as it was on July 24, 1991 - to fight for my son and never give up.
“Our fight continues to receive vital momentum and support, I have recently held meetings with the Minister for Europe to ensure that Ben’s case remains a priority at the highest diplomatic levels between the UK and Greece.
“I have the full backing of South Yorkshire Mayor Oliver Coppard.
“Around July 30th, a new documentary exploring Ben’s story will premiere on Hulu and Disney. We hope this release reaches millions worldwide, keeping Ben’s memory alive and compelling anyone with information to finally come forward.
“To support our ongoing search costs, private investigation work, and legal efforts, please consider donating to or sharing our official GoFundMe campaign.”
Police are also continuing their investigations, saying that it’s “never too late to share information.”
A South Yorkshire Police spokesperson added: “Our thoughts are with the family of Ben Needham today on the 35 year anniversary of his disappearance.
“Ben was 21 months old when he went missing on the Greek Island of Kos.
“Anyone with information about Ben’s disappearance is asked to report it here.
“It’s never too late to share information with us”