A Kent couple kidnapped by pirates in the Indian Ocean more than a year ago are preparing to return home today.

Paul and Rachel Chandler, from Tunbridge Wells, are believed to be getting on a flight from the Kenyan capital of Nairobi, where they stayed overnight.

Foreign Secretary William Hague said: "We are delighted, everyone is delighted.

"They are now in the care of the British High Commission, and they are in touch with their families.

"They will be well looked after. They have had a terrible ordeal.

"The British government will continue to contribute to the anti piracy patrols in the Indian Ocean, to work diplomatically for a more peaceful situation in Somalia."

"Hostage taking is fundamentally wrong, and the government will never reward hostage taking.

"People will understand the position of successive British governments that we do not pay ransoms or make significant concessions otherwise there would be a risk of many more hostage takings.

"We support many things and make contributions towards peace and stability in Somalia."

Prime Minister David Cameron also welcomed the release.

In a statement, he said: "I am grateful to all those who have worked so hard to bring the Chandlers safely out."

Yesterday, the couple spoke of their delight at being released by their Somali captors.

Paul and Rachel were captured last October near the idyllic shores of the Seychelles and said they have been treated like caged animals.

The couple appeared to be in good health as Paul, 60, told reporters: "We're fine, we're rather skinny and bony but we're fine."

A ransom of up to £600,000 has reportedly been paid to the pirates to secure the release.

Paul and Rachel were on their way to Kenya on Sunday night after being taken to the Somali capital Mogadishu.

At a short press conference at the presidential palace in Mogadishu, Mrs Chandler, 56, said: "We are among decent everyday people, with Somali people... and not with the criminals. To home now, with our family and friends."

Asked if he felt their lives had been in danger while being held hostage, Paul said the couple did not suffer serious physical harm but revealed they were beaten once.