Vigil for captive BBC journalist

Updated 20.02 Wed Jun 20 2007

Keywords: Gaza, Alan Johnston

Family, friends and BBC colleagues have joined in a worldwide vigil for journalist Alan Johnston to mark 100 days since he was kidnapped in Gaza.

His parents were joined by villagers at their home in Lochgoilhead, Argyll, where they released 100 balloons.

It is understood he was taken by a group calling itself The Army of Islam

And staff across the BBC joined Mr Johnston's newsroom colleagues in pausing for a moment to show their support.

The cast of EastEnders and crews at Glastonbury and at Royal Ascot were among the staff holding posters and wearing T-shirts with messages calling for his release.

Director of BBC News Helen Boaden said: "On the 100th day we are more steadfast in our support for Alan than ever and our thoughts are always with his family."

It is understood Mr Johnston was taken by a group calling itself The Army of Islam. Intensive international efforts have been continuing to secure his release.

A total of 170,000 people have signed a petition on the BBC website calling for the reporter's release.