Pirates capture Tunbridge Wells couple

Somalian pirates are to demand a ransom for the safe return of a Tunbridge Wells couple.

Paul and Rachel Chandler were captured while sailing near the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean.

They had been heading for Tanzania in their yacht, the Lynn Rival.

They sent a distress signal at 11pm on Friday but have not been heard from since.

A pirate called Hassan told the Reuters news agency today: "The British couple are in our hands now. We captured them as they were touring in the Indian Ocean."

He added they were healthy and that ransom demands would follow.

A Foreign and Commonwealth Office spokeswoman said they were in contact with their family in the UK and the Seychelles coastguard.

Mr and Mrs Chandler, aged 58 and 55 respectively, have been sailing around the world since 2006.

Do you know Paul and Rachel? Contact the Courier newsdesk on 01892 686951.