Hostage father dies of heart attack

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The Foreign Office has confirmed that County Durham-born Michael Hill, 60, died as a result of a medical condition.

His family believe the heart attack was brought on by the stress of the kidnapping.

His three-year-old daughter Margaret was snatched by militants on her way to school last month, but days later returned safe and well to her family.

Mr Hill, an oil worker, moved to Nigeria 10 years ago and worked as operations director for the US oil firm Lone Star.

During their ordeal Mr Hill offered to hand himself over to the kidnappers in exchange for his daughter's freedom.

Mr Hill, who also ran a karaoke bar with his third wife, Oluchi, also known as Tina, died at home in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, last Wednesday, and his funeral is expected to take place there.

Mr Hill had been due to return to Murton, County Durham, for a reunion with his extended family.

His sister, Catherine Duffy, of Murton, told the Northern Echo: "We all can't help but think it was that terrible ordeal which has triggered his death."

She added that she had spoken to his wife who confirmed their fears.