The miraculous escape of Amanda Berry and two other women from their abductors has captivated the world.

Berry, Michelle Knight, and Gina DeJesus all went missing around 10 years ago in Cleveland, Ohio.

They were able to escape along with Berry's daughter from the house where they had been held in captivity all these years after neighbour Charles Ramsey heard Berry's cries for help and managed to break the door open.

Speaking to CNN reporter Anderson Cooper, Berry's aunt Gale Mitchell said: "I just can't get over it. My daughter just had a feeling she was still alive. So did I. You don't give up hope." She added: "You just pray and pray and pray."

Berry was abducted in April 2003 at the age of 16. Knight was taken in 2002 aged 20 and DeJesus in 2004 at the age of 14.

The owner of the home where they were held, Ariel Castro, 52, has been detained along with his brothers, Pedro, 54, and Onil, 50.

Berry is now staying at the home of her sister, Beth Serrano. Upon her arrival there, Serrano read out a statement: "I want to thank the public and media for their support and courage over the years.

"At this time our family would request privacy so my sister and niece and I can have time to recover.

"We appreciate all you have done for us throughout the past ten years. Please respect our privacy until we are ready to make our statements. And thank you."