Peter Lawrence has spoken of how singing helps him cope with the pain of his daughter Claudia’s disappearance.
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His comments came after he auditioned for the new series of Britain’s Got Talent as part of the Missing People Choir.
Although the show won’t be screened on ITV1 until April or May, media reports suggested that their performance left many in the audience in tears, with judges Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon particularly moved.
The choir, created by the charity Missing People, is already tipped as one of the favourites to win BGT.
‘I Miss You’
A spokeswoman for the programme confirmed to YorkMix that the audition had taken place.
The choir brings together families who are missing loved ones.
Peter’s daughter Claudia hasn’t been seen since she left her home on Heworth Road, York, in March 2009.
The BGT spokeswoman said that Rachel Edwards, sister of missing Richard Edwards from the Manic Street Preachers also took part.
They performed the song I Miss You, written by choir member Peter Boxell about his son Lee who vanished in Sutton, South London, in 1988.
‘Very emotional’
In an interview with the Telegraph Peter said it was special to perform alongside people who really understand what he’s gone through.
It also allowed him to express emotions he wouldn’t normally put into words.
He told the paper:
It’s about being there waiting, and all the months and years we have been in the darkness and tears. It was very emotional but I got a hug from someone, and we carried straight on.
Last month North Yorkshire Police announced they were winding down their investigation into what they are treating as Claudia’s murder.
Peter described that news as “hugely disappointing and depressing” but said the police had been extremely thorough.
He also puts forward his own theory as to what might have happened.
“I’ve always thought she was probably picked up on the way to work by someone she at least recognised, in the very early morning in that quiet residential area. What happened after that, I have no idea.”