Kirstie Allsopp faces backlash for defending Madeleine McCann's parents

TV presenter Kirstie Allsopp has faced immense backlash after defending Madeleine McCann’s parents on social media.

The star’s followers, including Luisa Zissman, have spoken out against Kirstie since she made the comments, which came as it was revealed that the search for Maddie has cost taxpayers over £11.1million since she went missing in 2007.

It all started when Piers Morgan tweeted to say that the McCann’s had made a “mistake” leaving their children alone in a Portugal hotel room.

Kirstie wrote back: “I disagree, I think it was OK to leave the kids sleeping while the parents were in a restaurant close by & checking frequently.

“Have always though the McCanns did nothing wrong leaving the kids asleep nearby, it’s something people have done worldwide since time began.

“What the McCanns did is perfectly normal all over the world, and people that abuse and castigate grieving parents should be utterly ashamed.”

The star quickly felt the wrath of her followers, who tweeted their own views on leaving children alone in a hotel room:

TV star Luisa Zissman also got involved, writing: “Just guna pop to the shop & leave my kids at home alone in an unlocked house. Is that ok? @KirstieMAllsopp seems 2 think that’s acceptable? [sic]”

However, Kirstie remained defiant, writing: “We cannot live every moment in fear of the tiny, tiny number of evil freaks that sadly exist, parenting has become too fearful.

“For years Mums & Dads have popped next door to have a cuppa with a neighbour when the kids were in bed or even gone to the pub on the corner.

“What I find staggering is the number of people who think that they could never make the wrong choice, because I know I have, often.

“Good to know that if you fail there are so many to judge & condemn you, on the upside great to learn that perfect parents are so numerous.”

She then refused to talk about her views any further, concluding with: “No desire to debate this, I’ve said my bit and won’t be revisiting the topic, shocked by the amount of bile people hold, it isn’t healthy.”

Yesterday it was announced that the police will get another £85,000 to support the search for Maddie, prompting nationwide outrage and debate.