The story of a Newlyn man stranded in Crete after being charged with his parents' murder will be broadcast nationwide next month in a television documentary. Ryan Johnson has been on police bail in Crete since his parents, Jo and Terry, were brutally murdered at their villa on the island in March.

Ryan, their only son, has vehemently denied killing them and friends and family in West Cornwall have rallied to support a battle to clear his name. However with the Greek courts now closed until September, a trial date may be as far off as 2008.

Ryan's plight has been featured in The Cornishman and several national newspapers, and now his story will be told during a one-hour special of the ITV 1 programme, Tonight with Trevor McDonald.

Over the last few weeks film crews have visited Ryan in Crete and also interviewed members of his family in Cornwall for the documentary that is scheduled for screening on Monday, July 3.

The program will also provide the most high-profile coverage to date for a local appeal to raise money to support Ryan's ongoing legal battle and other costs, which have totalled more than £30,000 to date.

Tomorrow (Friday), a performing arts group, re-formed to raise money for the appeal, will host a barbecue at The Magpies Club from 6pm.

Penzance Tensing are inviting friends, family and group members new and old to the evening that will also feature children's entertainment.

Through the barbecue and a fundraising concert due to take place at The Acorn on August 5, the group hopes to raise several thousand pounds for Ryan's protracted battle.

A spokesperson for the appeal added: "Many thanks to the generous residents of Newlyn Coombe who donated nearly £200 to the appeal."

Ryan himself added: "I'm so grateful for all the support I've been getting, it's really helped. I don't think I'll ever be able to express how much thanks I have for everyone who's been so kind."

Anyone wishing to make a donation to The Johnson Appeal can pay money into any HSBC branch using the sort code 40-36-13 and account number 714555575.

article copyright © THE CORNISHMAN

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