A British man who sparked a major search after going missing in Tenerife will not be able to return home immediately to the UK. Liam Hannigan, from Clifton, Salford, had not been in contact with friends or family since last Friday (February 7) but his sister revealed the good news that he had been found yesterday after his family had gone out to help look for him. Yesterday evening Liam's sister, Ellie, shared that the 34-year-old has been found after their mother and father went to the island to search. She wrote on Facebook: "My mum and dad have successfully found Liam while searching for him in Tenerife this evening.
"He is now on his way back to safety with them, where he will receive the necessary care he needs." But she added that although he is with his family he still needs medical help before he will be able to return home. Ellie wrote: "Although Liam has been found, he still requires medical help before we can bring him back to Manchester. We are so grateful to everyone who has helped us during this incredibly difficult time. The past few weeks have been a nightmare for our family, but knowing Liam is safe and with mum and dad is a huge relief. Thank you all for your support and love.".
Liam had been on holiday in the La Asomada area, but had also visited friends in Los Cristianos, one of the island's most popular tourist hotspots. CCTV footage showed Liam walking alone on Monday, without any belongings and without the means to pay for food or drinks. Both the Foreign Office and Greater Manchester Police had been supporting the family, along with Spanish authorities. Before Liam was found, Ellie addressed 'rumours circulating on social media', stating that Liam was 'not out drinking or involved in any illegal activities', while the family are growing concerned for his welfare.
"As a family, we are doing everything we can to support Liam, and we ask for understanding and compassion," Ellie said. "My family are on the first flight out this morning to hopefully find Liam and get him the help he needs and eventually get him back home. Thank you to everyone who is sharing the posts and sending us well wishes.". Liam had been staying on the popular Canary Island with friends he met after flying out for a holiday with his partner on December 29. Ellie had told the Manchester Evening News of the family's desperation saying: "He's very family orientated. He would never ever stress us out like this, it's very unusual. My mum and step dad are flying out tomorrow (Tuesday). Even just a sighting or someone who assumes they've seen him could help. We just want him home." A Foreign Office spokesperson said: "We are supporting the family of a British man in Tenerife.”.
