Cleo Smith's parents release statement thanking those that made their family "whole again"

Cleo Smith's parents, Ellie Smith and Jake Gliddon, have broken their silence and have thanked everyone who was involved in their daughter's dramatic rescue.

The four-year-old was allegedly taken from the family tent while camping at Quobba Blowholes in Western Australia on October 16 and was missing for 18 days.

Over the weekend, Smith and Gliddon released a statement, saying: "In particular, we would like to thank WA Police, all those involved in the initial search, the Carnarvon community, local businesses and, of course, our family and friends.

"We are humbled by the love and support that we have received from not only our local community but the whole of Western Australia and across the country.

"We are so thankful that our little girl is back within our arms and our family is whole again. As we try to get on with our lives, we ask that you respect our privacy."

Cleo was rescued from a locked house in Carnarvon – not far from her family home – just before 1am last Wednesday after detectives burst in.

Her disappearance sparked a massive land, air and sea search - and hit headlines around the world.