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BBC Marks Alan Johnston's 100 Days In Captivity

19th June 2007 Print
The BBC is holding a worldwide vigil tomorrow (Wednesday 20 June) for Alan Johnston, BBC Gaza Correspondent, to mark 100 days since he was captured in Gaza. Alan's parents will be joined by villagers at their home in Lochgoilhead, Scotland, where they will release 100 balloons at 2.15pm (BST).

Also at 2.15pm (BST), Alan's colleagues across the BBC will pause for a moment in their work to show their support. Staff will be holding posters and wearing T-shirts with messages calling for Alan's release. News 24 and BBC World will carry the events live.

Among those taking part:

In London, the BBC Trust and members of the Executive board, Alan's colleagues at Television Centre and Bush House;

Bureaux in Washington, New York, Brussels, Jerusalem and Kabul; Members of the EastEnders cast and crew on Albert Square; The BBC crew at the Glastonbury Festival.

Director of BBC News, Helen Boaden said: "On the hundredth day we are more steadfast in our support for Alan than ever and our thoughts are always with his family."

Alan has not been seen since he was seized at gunpoint on his way home in Gaza City on 12 March.

Some 170,000 people have signed a petition on the BBC website calling for Alan's release.

Names can be added to the petition at: Bbc.co.uk/haveyoursay.