A LAW firm in Radcliffe has teamed up with a north-west charity to help people understand the physical and mental effects of being held hostage.

Terry Waite and John McCarthy, kidnapped in the Lebanon, will both be in attendance at the Hostage International gathering, supported by Garratts Solicitors.

Charity board member Judith Tebbutt, a former psychiatric hospital social worker, will also be on hand for the March 26 event at London’s Old Bailey. The trio will share their experiences of time in captivity and adjusting to life back home.

Stephen Garratt, managing partner at the legal outfit, which has an office in Water Street, said: “As lawyers we understand the importance of organisations like Hostage International, which can offer assistance to not only individuals but also families in their hour of need."

Lara Symons, the charity’s director, said: “The trauma of a kidnap, not only for those taken hostage, but also for their families and loved ones, is unimaginable to most of us. We are keenly aware that talking about such experiences isn’t easy."

All proceeds from the event will go to the charity, which was formed by Terry Waite in 2004 and runs a free family and hostage support service. To purchase tickets, visit www.ticketsource.co.uk/hostage-international/