Willington family of freed ship's engineer 'elated' (From The Northern Echo)

Willington family of freed ship's engineer 'elated'

12:09pm Monday 12th January 2009 in

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THE wife of a North-East ship's engineer freed by pirates after two months' captivity has spoken at her family's elation at the end their ordeal.

Hazel French, who lives at Willington, County Durham, with her 18-month old daughter Amy, released a statement through Durham police this morning.

Her husband Peter is thought to be on his way home aboard the Saudi supertanker Sirius Star which was seized by Somali pirates on November 15.

The ship was released on Friday after its owners Vela International paid a £1.97m ransom.

"I have spoken to Peter and he is in good spirits and who is looking forward to time at home with his family and a little relaxation."

Peter French's wife, Hazel

Five of the pirates drowned as they made their escape in a small boat. One had more than £100,000 in his pocket when his body was washed ashore.

Mrs French said: "The family of Peter French would like to say how elated and relieved they are at the release of the ship.

"This has been a very difficult time for everyone, particularly at Christmas and New Year. We are now looking forward to his return home.

"I have spoken to Peter and he is in good spirits and who is looking forward to time at home with his family and a little relaxation. Hopefully it will not be too long before Peter is back.

"We would like to say thank you to everyone, both family and friends, who have been such a huge support to us over the last two months."