Ronnie Biggs, the English Great Train Robber, freed on compasionate grounds

Great Train Robber Ronnie Biggs has been granted release from his prison sentence on compassionate grounds, Justice Secretary Jack Straw has said. Biggs, 79, is severely ill in hospital with pneumonia and doctors have said there is "not much hope" for him.

Mr Straw said the decision had been based on medical evidence that Biggs's condition had deteriorated and he was not expected to recover. Biggs's son Michael told the BBC he was "absolutely delighted" by the news.

I remember the story of the Great Train Robbery from my childhood. The memories are quite vivid. He became a cult hero of sorts, but eventually served his time in order to return home.