Kidnapped British photographer safely back in Europe after two-month Basra ordeal

Speaking at an undisclosed location, freelance photographer Richard Butler said he had received no mistreatment during his two months in captivity in Iraq.

He said in a statement: "First and foremost I would like to thank all those who were involved in working for my freedom, especially the Iraqi army whose bravery under fire actually won my freedom.

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"I'd also like to express my deepest thanks to my CBS colleagues who worked tirelessly on my behalf and looked after my family in my absence.

"At no time during my captivity was I mistreated.

"And lastly, and most importantly, I would appeal to all hostage takers to release their hostages regardless of nationality and return to their families. Thank you."

US television network CBS refused to disclose which European country Mr Butler had arrived in or give any other details.

Mr Butler was freed on April 14 when Iraqi soldiers stormed a house in Basra and found him by chance.

He was found with a sack over his head and his hands tied. He had been held captive since February 10.

Gunmen from Basra's Shia militias were thought to be behind the kidnapping, in which Mr Butler was abducted from a Basra hotel.