TUESDAY marked the fourth anniversary of the kidnap of Haslemere-based journalist John Cantlie by Islamic State.

Supporters voiced their relief he was still alive after he appeared in a propaganda video by IS to highlight the bombing of Mosul University, back in July.

His skills as a journalist have been exploited 11 times by IS terrorists in an attempt to lend credibility to their propaganda films.

Concern for the safety of the former motorcycling magazine writer has mounted as the long-awaited military offensive to reclaim the northern Iraqi city of Mosul from IS got under way in the last month.

In a previous propaganda film in March, Mr Cantlie was also filmed in various locations in Mosul.

“I don’t dare to imagine what horror and hardship he has endured over the last four years,” a supporter wrote on Facebook on this week’s anniversary.

“As the Iraqi Army move into Mosul I daily listen to news broadcasts hoping to hear that John is found alive and well. So far John has defied the odds and I’m sure he will continue to do so.” they added.

“Every minute of every hour of every day, we miss you. Every minute of every hour of every day, we want you home. We will not give up hope.”