A Dartford backpacker jailed in India has lost an appeal to have his conviction overturned.

Patrick Malluzzo has spent the last four years waiting for judges in Rajasthan to reconsider his case. But after months of delays and adjournments a judge has today told him to serve the rest of his sentence.

The 32-year-old was arrested on suspicion of drug-smuggling during a trip to India in 2004 and jailed for ten years in 2006.

Campaigners behind his bid for freedom have always maintained his innocence, calling the trial a miscarriage of justice.

His parents Teresa and Salvatore, of Upper Heath Lane, said they are "devastated" by the latest blow.

For the full story see this week's Dartford Messenger.