03/12/2007

Sudanese Pardon Teacher

Jailed teacher Gillian Gibbons is to be released from prison in Sudan today after she was locked up for allowing children in her class to name a teddy bear Muhammad.

Mrs Gibbons, 54, from Liverpool, was jailed for 15 days by a court in Sudan.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir pardoned her after a meeting with two British Muslim peers.

In a statement, Mrs Gibbons said: "I am sorry if I caused any distress."

Prime Minister, Gordon Brown said he was "delighted and relieved" at the news.

Mrs Gibbons is expected to be released later on Monday and flown back to the UK.

See: Sudan Protestors Call For Teacher's Death

(BMcC)

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