Journalist John McCarthy was held hostage in Lebanon for more than five years. Now, three decades on, he’s helping others in similar situations through his role as Patron of Hostage International.

The charity was originally founded by John’s former cellmate and great friend Sir Terry Waite who himself was held for more almost five years, much of it alone.

John reflects on the fanfare he came home to in Britain, how the experience has influenced his life and how honoured he is to help Terry and Hostage International support families and former hostages through the ordeal of kidnap and illegal detention, which remains a global problem.

John's return to RAF Lyneham, UK

John reunited with former cellmates Brian Keenan and Terry Waite

Jill Morrell campaigning for John's release

John McCarthy with former girlfriend Jill Morrell