A JAILED charity worker's appeal against his conviction for possession of drugs in India could take a step forward today.

India's Supreme Court will hold an initial hearing into the case of Ian Stillman, who has consistently denied possessing cannabis.

Stillman, whose parents live in Tadcaster Road, York, is serving a ten-year prison sentence after being found guilty at a trial which his supporters have branded unfair.

His sister, Elspeth Dugdale, said: "Our understanding is that this hearing is vital as it will decide if the court will allow the appeal to be heard or not.