Jailed Briton arrives home

Mr Mechan was convicted of stabbing an American

A British man jailed in Bahrain for stabbing a man to death has arrived back home in Gloucester after being freed from prison.

Richard Mechan, 37, was convicted of stabbing an American colleague while working in the Gulf four years ago.

He had always maintained he was acting in self-defence but was originally given a 15-year sentence.

This was subsequently halved and then cut to five years in May 2002.

"We are grateful that the nightmare is over for us," Mr Mechan's father, Terry, told the English language newspaper in Bahrain.

Key evidence

Mr Mechan arrived back in Britain on Sunday after the King of Bahrain decreed that his five-year jail sentence was at an end.

The sudden move brings to an end a lengthy campaign by Mr Mechan's family to secure his release.

Terry Mechan had fought to have the decision overturned - claiming that key evidence was not considered by the Gulf State's courts.

"I'm very pleased to have him back, he's been up all night and he's very tired after I went to collect him from the airport," he said.

"I never lost hope and always thought I would be successful in getting him out.

"It's fantastic to have him back home."

Richard said: "I always had faith that my dad would help get me out. It was a tough time over there, but I'll save the details for another time.

"I want to thank the people of Gloucester and the people from all over the world who have sent me letters of support."