An emotional day in Rothley, Leicestershire, as the great-aunt of Madeleine McCann, Janet Kennedy, recounted a shocking encounter from a past vigil in court. Imagine attending a tribute event, only to be confronted by someone claiming to be your missing great-niece. Julia Wandelt, aged 24, approached Janet, insisting she was Madeleine and handed her an envelope with supposed proof.
Janet shared her disbelief with the jury, stating there was “no way” Wandelt could be Madeleine. She highlighted the ‘essential person’ she felt wasn’t there and noted distinct differences, from Julia’s Polish heritage to her eyes.
The court heard that Julia was persistent, even making frequent calls and emails to Madeleine’s parents, Kate and Gerry. Though Janet did eventually take the envelope, she tore it up after careful consideration, knowing how disturbing the entire situation could be for her family.
DC Mark Draycott from the Metropolitan Police, involved in Madeleine’s case for years, also revealed his efforts to reassure Julia that she was not Madeleine. He made it clear, based on extensive investigation, she wasn’t the missing girl, to which Julia reportedly felt relieved.
Throughout this encounter, Julia remained adamant, much to the surprise and discomfort of the McCann family. It’s a bizarre twist in a long and painful journey, and Julia, along with another individual from Cardiff, stands trial denying stalking accusations. Despite all this, Janet maintained composure, ever mindful of the wider impact on her family.
A case that continues to haunt a community and a family, reminding us all of the unresolved mystery and heartache surrounding Madeleine’s disappearance. Let’s keep the family in our thoughts and hope for peace and resolution. 💔
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