The family of Mary Bastholm have released a statement after excavation work at the Clean Plate Cafe in Gloucester found no human remains.
“We would like to thank Gloucestershire Constabulary for all they have done through this difficult and emotional time.
“In particular we would like to thank DCI John Turner and the Family Liaison Officers Sean and Josh who have done a marvellous job with supporting us right from the beginning.
“We want to thank the production team for bringing their own investigation and evidence forward.
“And we would also like to thank those who have carried out the excavation work at the café, not forgetting the owners of the café for allowing this excavation to happen.
“We are still very sad that Mary has not been found. We were hoping to get a final closure on her disappearance so that we could put her to rest.
“We have been open minded throughout this process and we now know that the café can be ruled out. We can however hold out some hope that one day Mary will be found.
“Mary was a strong willed and happy-go-lucky teenager, dearly loved by her parents and two brothers. She enjoyed life and was just coming into her own when her life was tragically cut short.
“Her parents and two brothers were never the same after she went missing.
“They have now sadly passed away without ever knowing what happened to their loving daughter and sister.
“Finally we would like to thank the people of Gloucestershire for their support during this difficult time.”