THE 12 British air enthusiasts arrested in Greece say they are becoming more and more convinced they will not be home for Christmas.

The group, which includes York man Andy Jenkins, say the continued delays in their case are causing them to lose hope.

Detainee Wayne Groves, of Tamworth, Staffordshire, said: "We were promised we would hear something by Monday or Tuesday last week, but nothing has happened.

"With Christmas approaching, we are getting concerned. On December 20, the courts pack up for Christmas until January 7."

Mr Groves said those being held at Nafplion prison were "totally fed up", adding: "I would advise people not to come here. Anybody can make an accusation against you. You will be put straight in prison, and you have to prove you are innocent."

The group managed to get a taste of home yesterday, when they were able to watch the Premiership clash between Arsenal and Aston Villa on television.

Richard Howitt, the East of England MEP, who has been campaigning on the group's behalf, said: "We are optimistic for a decision on their case this week."

"The only question the judges have to decide is why these people were doing what they were doing. I think there can only be one conclusion."

Albert Coppin, whose son, Paul, and daughter-in-law, Lesley, are among those being held, said a number of the group were suffering from stomach ailments and had lost weight.

But Andy's lawyer, Ioannis Zacharias, said he had heard "no reports" of illness in recent days.

He also dismissed reports that the Greek justices have asked Turkish officials to explain why Paul Coppin went plane spotting in Turkey earlier this year.

"I don't know how people can say the judges are asking this or that," he said.

"The judges are not yet appointed, and when they are, they will be the only ones who know what they are thinking."

Updated: 10:45 Monday, December 10, 2001