Les Walker had been sentenced to 12 years in prison

Les Walker, of Neston, Wirral, was freed with five other Britons on Thursday.

The 57-year-old was reunited with his family at Heathrow Airport on Friday after serving two-and-a-half years for his alleged part in a bombing campaign.

He had given a televised confession which he later withdrew and has maintained his innocence ever since.

Many people questioned the authenticity of the admissions amid claims of torture and he was released after being granted Royal clemency.

I think I'm on automatic pilot now but I'm really happy to be doing this because it really was the best day of my life Les Walker's daughter, Yvonne

Mr Walker had been sentenced to 12 years in prison after being one of six Britons accused of being involved in gang warfare to control the lucrative bootleg alcohol trade in the Middle Eastern kingdom.

His daughter, Yvonne Wardle, told the BBC she had less than a day to prepare for her dad's arrival .

She added: "He is such a strong character and he's been fine.

"We'll just all look after each other and make sure everything goes alright now.

MP's praise

"We just met at Heathrow, gathered our thoughts and now we're just going to get on with the rest of it.

"I haven't slept. I think I'm on automatic pilot now but I'm really happy to be doing this because it really was the best day of my life."

Mr Walker's MP Andrew Miller praised the UK Foreign Office and British officials for their part in securing his release.