The Tunbridge Wells couple kidnapped by Somali pirates have urged the Government to carry out negotiations to buy their lives back.

A video of Paul and Rachel Chandler has been released in which their captors are seen pointing guns at them. It is believed the video was filmed on Wednesday.

The pair, who were seized almost a month ago as they sailed from the Seychelles towards Tanzania, say they fear they could be killed within a week.

Although in the footage Mr Chandler says they are "unharmed and in reasonable physical health" he also says their captors are "losing patience".

He warns he has no doubt their kidnappers would not hesitate to kill them, perhaps within a week or so.

The group holding the Chandlers want more than £4million to secure their safe return.

The British Government has reiterated it does not negotiate with hostage takers and is refusing to discuss ransom demands.