3 Hostages Freed by British, US & Iraqi Forces

Norman Kember looks a bit like the original Uncle Albert in Only Fools & Horses

One British and two Canadian peace activists held hostage in Iraq have been freed in an operation by multinational forces.

Norman Kember, 74, of Pinner, north-west London, James Loney and Harmeet Singh Sooden, were three of four men seized in Baghdad in November.

Mr Kember is said to be in a "reasonable condition" while the two Canadians were taken to hospital.

The body of murdered US citizen Tom Fox was found in Baghdad two weeks ago.

Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said he had spoken to Mr Kember's wife Pat and that she was "absolutely delighted, elated with this news".

Prime Minister Tony Blair said he was delighted by the news, and particularly pleased for the freed men and their families.

He also congratulated everyone involved in the rescue operation. Mr Straw said British forces had taken part.

From BBC News