UK couple appeal for privacy after being released by pirates

A British couple, released by Somali pirates at the weekend, have asked for privacy while they come to terms with their ordeal.

Paul and Rachel Chandler were held captive for more than a year.

They say they will return to the UK very soon and that they have only just found out Paul's father died a few months ago.

Their statement said: " We thank you all for your concern and interest. We have just learned that Paul's father died in late July, and we obviously need to come to terms with that.

"We will return to the UK very soon. We do not intend to give any press interviews or make any further statements until we have had time to adjust to the situation and we would appreciate it if you would give us and our families some space, and respect our privacy for the moment."