New DNA evidence which could link Gerry and Kate McCann to their daughter Madeleine's disappearance has been found by British scientists, it was claimed today.

Results at the Forensic Science Service laboratory in Birmingham back up earlier findings which led to the couple being named as official suspects, it was reported.

A source said new evidence showed the investigation was focused 'where it should be'.

The DNA evidence was obtained from material gathered from the McCanns' apartment in Praia da Luz, their hire car and other parts of the holiday complex where they were staying, the Evening Standard reported.

The source said: 'There is no reason to change the direction of the investigation and everything that has emerged indicates that it is focusing where it should.

'The new material adds to the existing picture that has been built up by police and fills in a few more pieces of the jigsaw.'

The McCanns deny any involvement in Madeleine's disapperance.

Their spokesman, Clarence Mitchell, said there are 'wholly innocent explanations' for any material gathered by police.

Lawyers acting for the parents of missing Madeleine McCann travelled to Portugal last week in an effort to have their suspect status removed, it was revealed today.

Mr Mitchell said a campaign of TV adverts to be shown in Morocco was "ready to roll", as was a poster campaign in Spanish supermarkets.

Asked about possible replacements for Goncarlo Amaral, who resigned as head of the investigation last week, Mr Mitchell said he hoped the new chief, when he was appointed, would refocus the investigation on finding Madeleine.

It is understood that inquiries made by a former South African policeman to find the little girl's body using a DNA tracking device have drawn a blank.