THE family of Donna Keogh who has been missing for 17 years have been issued with an apology by Cleveland Police over its handling of the sensitive case.

A fresh review of the unsolved disappearance has been called for by Deputy Chief Constable, Iain Spittal, who met with Miss Keogh’s family this week.

He said: “As the 17th anniversary of Donna’s disappearance approaches out thoughts remain with her family and friends who endure the ongoing agony of not knowing what happened to her.”

She was 17 when she vanished from her hometown of Middlesbrough, in 1998. The last confirmed sighting of her was at a house in Bow Street.

“I cannot begin to understand the pain and misery Donna’s disappearance must have caused her family and those close to her but I am sure someone must know what has happened to her and I would appeal to them examine their conscience and speak to the police so we can give the family some closure.

“The case has always remained open and we have made numerous appeals over the years but I am aware Donna’s family had expressed displeasure and disappointment about the force’s initial handling of some aspects of the sensitive case.

“I met personally with Donna’s family this week and offered an apology on behalf of Cleveland Police which they have accepted.”

He added: “Our focus is on finding out what happened to Donna and bringing to justice any person or people who harmed her.”

Anyone with information can contact Cleveland Police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800-555111.