The fight for justice for a former paratrooper has been dealt a major blow – after the judge in the case moved on.

John Armstrong , 29, and five other Britons imprisoned in India had been hoping to get a decision on an application for bail – pending an appeal against conviction – at the latest hearing, set for Wednesday.

In the latest twist to their tale, their families back in the UK have learned that the entire process must now begin again.

John’s sister Joanne Thomlinson, of Blennerhasset, said: “The latest delay is hugely frustrating, especially as we thought we were about to be given a decision on the suspension application [to suspend the men’s sentence until the outcome of the appeal].

“To find out the application has to be started again is so disheartening.

“Our main concern at the moment is that we don’t know if the men are aware that the [appeal] hearing on October 19 is now also unlikely to be going ahead.

“Last we heard, they were just counting down the days to being given a decision. To find out the application has to be started again will be a huge blow to them.”

The Britons are among 35 men in prison in Chennai, serving a five year jail sentence after being convicted of illegally possessing firearms in international waters.

Joanne, 31, had only just returned from visiting John when she learned the latest news. She said: “John was looking well when we saw him, better than when we saw him in May.

“We had to inform the men of the then-three week adjournment to the case which was frustrating for them.

“In general, though, John seemed to be doing well. He’s doing lots of reading, running and walking.”


Joanne Thomlinson Joanne added: “They’re really just hoping and praying they get out on bail so that at least they can be in better conditions while their appeal runs through the courts.”

While in India, the campaigning sibling also met the Deputy High Commissioner and consular staff.

“Bharat Joshi (deputy high commissioner) has assured us he is regularly lobbying on behalf of the men,” said Joanne.

“Obviously since this last delay I have been back in touch with Mr Joshi asking what more can be done so that delays like this don’t keep occurring.”

John’s family and friends in his hometown have joined relatives of the other five Britons, in a bid to keep up the pressure on the Government and bring the men – known as the Chennai 6 – home.