THE parents of missing Madeleine McCann shed tears today during an emotional trip to the Vatican to meet the Pope.

Gerry and Kate McCann were given the honour of meeting the Pontiff during a General Audience at the Vatican.

The couple are very devout Catholics - particularly Mrs McCann - and they believe the visit will be spiritually uplifting.

The meeting with Pope Benedict XVI lasted a little less than 30 seconds, during which time Mrs McCann gave a photograph of her daughter to him.

She spoke emphatically to the Holy Father while her husband bowed and kissed his hand.

The couple had struggled to control their emotions throughout the ceremony, which lasted more than an hour-and-a-half.

At one point, an English-speaking priest issued a prayer on behalf of the Pope: "In a special way his blessing goes to your children and your loved ones."

His words proved too much for the couple, who broke down and wiped back the tears with their heads bowed.

For much of the general audience, Mrs McCann, the now standard green and yellow ribbons in her hair fluttering in the breeze, kept her eyes closed.

She frequently looked down at the picture of Madeleine she was carrying - the portrait photograph which has been used in the main appeal and seen around the world.

Through the emotional event, Mr McCann comforted his wife, slipping his arm around her waist and squeezing her shoulder.

A Catholic priest accompanying them also hugged and comforted her.

Sitting behind them was the British Ambassador to the Holy See, Francis Campbell, and their liaison officer, Clarence Mitchell.

The couple were surrounded by nuns, priests, a woman wearing a bridal dress and several little children.

When the Pope first arrived at St Peters Square, the McCanns stood watching among the crowd - inconspicuous for once.

The couple's sadness was in sharp contrast to the almost carnival atmosphere in the square.

About 25,000 pilgrims from around the world had gathered to cheer, sing and play music.

The musical interlude seemed to be the only time Mrs McCann looked at ease.

Throughout her time in St Peters Square, Mrs McCann carried a set of black rosary beads.

Full story in tomorrow's Northern Echo