Cameron Simpson cameron.simpson@theherald.co.uk CELEBRATIONS were under way last night in the home village of 26-year-old Royal Marine Danny Masterton as he prepared to fly home after his 13-day ordeal was brought to a close.
His parents were said to be "delighted and thrilled".
The family home in Muirkirk, Ayrshire, was quiet last night, its blinds drawn with a note on the door directing media to the Ministry of Defence press office.
In his local pub, The Coach House Inn, the landlady Audrey Bone said: "We're delighted at the news. We can't wait to welcome Danny back home.
"We were shocked to find him at the centre of this big international incident."
Nicole Durkin, 20, a lifelong friend, said it was fantastic news. "We were absolutely devastated when we heard he'd been taken hostage, but we had to be positive for his mother. We've all been hoping and praying for his safe return.
"Danny's quiet until he has a couple of drinks then he's the life and soul of the party. He loves singing Wonderwall by Oasis on the karaoke."
James Kelly, East Ayrshire Council member for Muirkirk and a local resident, is a close friend of the family.
Mr Kelly, 68, had spoken of the devastation felt by the whole community. "If I could send Danny a message, I'd say, Hurry home, son'."
Last night Mr Kelly got his wish. "I think it's absolutely marvellous news. His mum is not in the best of health at the moment. But a lot of the stress has now been lifted.
"The Mastertons are a well-respected family in the village. Danny is a smashing guy and is well-liked."
Marine Masterton's father is best known for his time at Clyde FC in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Danny senior, 53, is held in high regard in Muirkirk for his service at Ayr United.
Mr Kelly said he had spoken to him the other day. "He was upbeat about the negotiations but it has happened a lot quicker than people thought."
Marine Masterton is a member of the elite Fleet Standby Rifle Troop, based at Faslane on the Clyde.
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