Messages of support as the money flows in for search
HUNDREDS of messages of hope have been posted on the website through which enough money was raised to launch a new search for a plane which went missing last Monday.
A decision was made on Thursday to end the search efforts for a plane carrying Cardiff City striker Emiliano Sala and pilot David Ibbotson, after more than 1,700sq. miles of land and sea were scoured by search and rescue teams.
The family of Mr Sala pleaded immediately for efforts to continue, along with the player’s former club, FC Nantes, which issued a request to Guernsey Police via social media.
On Friday, a GoFundMe page was launched by French sports agency, Sport Cover, which represents the footballer, which sought to raise £260,000 to cover the costs of a new search.
The donations from across the globe are still coming in and are now up to almost £300,000.
Along with the donations, people are leaving messages of hope and support.
Tracy Cullerne wrote: ‘The Cullerne Family have donated because we are hoping and praying for a miracle.
‘As Bluebird [Cardiff City] fans we wanted to offer our support to the families.
‘As a mother I would never rest until I found my child. Love and strength to you all and still hoping to see your debut on the pitch, Emiliano.’
Stella Mcintyre wrote that as a mother of two she would not rest until they were found.
While Iwan Williams commented saying: ‘A tragedy beyond words. My thoughts are with both families.’
Ray Jones wrote: ‘No words can describe the pain the families are going through as well as all who knew and loved Emilio and Dave the pilot. This shocking news really effected people.’
On Sunday morning, France World Cup-winning footballer Kylian Mbappe pledged £26,000 after his Paris Saint-Germain team-mate, Adrien Rabiot, had earlier donated more than £21,000.
The cash raised has allowed the footballer’s family to fund two boats, which reportedly started looking on Saturday.
American-born marine scientist and oceanographer David Mearns, based in south-east England, is leading the private search on behalf of Mr Sala’s family.
