SUPPORTERS of jailed charity worker Ian Stillman are preparing to lodge an appeal against a decision not to free him from an Indian prison.

A previous appeal against the conviction of the deaf man, imprisoned for ten years for possession of cannabis, failed earlier this month.

But the Indian Supreme Court, in Delhi, is now being asked to look at his case. The move follows a visit by Mr Stillman's sister, Elspeth Dugdale, MP Sandra Gidley and Stephen Jakobi, of Fair Trials Abroad, to the Foreign Office.

Elspeth said: "The Foreign Office are very sympathetic to Ian's situation and suggest we appeal, but they warn appeals can be lengthy."

Stillman, 51, whose parents Roy and Monica live in Tadcaster Road, York, was jailed for possession of 20 kilos of cannabis in August 2000, a charge he has always denied.

His lawyers have argued that the trial was unfair because his deafness stopped him understanding and participating in the procedures.

The reasons why the first appeal was turned down have not yet been published. His supporters have also met with the Minister Political at the Indian High Commission.

"He seemed receptive," said Elspeth.

"He asked us to email him our specific concerns, which we have done. We hope that he will raise them in India."

His supporters have also been urged to start a letter writing campaign targeting MPs.

"A lot of signatures will show the Government that there is strong support for Ian's case to be dealt with swiftly," said Elspeth.

Plans are also being laid to start a worldwide petition calling for his release.

Stillman has been in India for many years working with deaf people.

Updated: 10:25 Wednesday, January 23, 2002