Searchers feel for Madeleine hunt

Kent Search and Rescue members recruited in Maidstone

A search and rescue team in Kent has said the hunt for missing Madeleine McCann in Portugal has helped boost interest in its own recruitment drive.

Kent Search and Rescue (KSAR) were out in Maidstone on Saturday to find new people to join the 24-strong team.

The volunteers work with Kent Police in searches for missing vulnerable people such as four-year-old Madeleine.

"I have absolute sympathy for the Portuguese police," said police liaison officer Sgt Glenn Craddock.

"It would appear they are putting a great deal of effort into that search."

Charity appeals

KSAR was called out to search for 19 missing people in 2006, the youngest of whom was aged 10.

Mr Craddock said the group received some funding from Kent Police but also relied on charity appeals.

It began in the Thanet area and wants to expand into the rest of Kent, particularly in the Maidstone area.

Saturday's recruitment drive, based at Boxley Road TA Centre, was the first of its kind.

"It is really people's enthusiasm we are looking for, because training is provided in mapping, first aid, basic survival skills and team safety and observational skills," said Mr Craddock.

"They give us a great deal of help in major operations."