Missing Alex Batty returns to UK

Dec 16, 2023

A teenager found in France six years after he was reported missing has returned to the UK, the PA news agency understands.

Alex Batty was aged 11 when he went missing after he never returned from a holiday to Spain with his mother Melanie Batty, 38 – who does not have legal parental guardianship – and his grandfather David Batty, 59 in 2017.

His grandmother and legal guardian Susan Caruana previously said she “can’t wait” to see him when he returns.

Now 17 years old, Alex was due to be flown from Toulouse on Saturday afternoon after a passport was expedited to allow him to return home to his grandmother.

He was found by chiropody student Fabien Accidini while walking alone near Toulouse in the early hours of Wednesday.

Ms Caruana, from Oldham, Greater Manchester, said on Friday: “I cannot begin to express my relief and happiness that Alex has been found safe and well.

“I spoke with him last night and it was so good to hear his voice and see his face again. I can’t wait to see him when we’re reunited.

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“The main thing is that he’s safe, after what would be an overwhelming experience for anyone, not least a child.”

She asked for privacy as the family welcomed Alex back.

It is thought Alex had been living an “alternative” lifestyle with his mother and grandfather across Spain, Morocco and France while he was missing.

Mr Accidini said the teenager told him he had been hiking in nearby mountains for more than four days in an attempt to return to England.

On Friday, French prosecutors said the teenager’s mother, Melanie Batty, who is wanted in connection with his disappearance, may be in Finland, while his grandfather David Batty has died.

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