THE elderly father of Haslemere photojournalist John Cantlie, who is being held hostage by Islamic State militants, has broadcast a public appeal to his captors for the safe return of his son.

Speaking from his hospital bed after undergoing throat surgery, Paul Cantlie, who lives in Hampshire, said: "My family and I are trying to communicate with the Islamic State to deliver an important message regarding John and can only hope that it's been received as we have had no response."

For full story, see this week's Haslemere Herald.