The British plane spotters imprisoned in Greece were last night enjoying their first hours of freedom in five weeks.

The ordeal for the 12-strong group, who had been accused of spying, ended yesterday when bail was accepted and they were released.

They planned to fly home this morning for a reunion with family and friends.

Greek bureaucracy added a final twist yesterday when the authorities refused to recognise a cheque from the Government. The British ambassador in Greece, David Madden, had to contact the Greek economic minister and other senior politicians.

Euro MP Richard Howitt said problems arose over a cheque covering the bail monies for nine of 12 - the equivalent of about £81,000.

The cheque was made out after families of the detained lodged the money at a local police station.

Mr Howitt said: "It was from Grindley's bank, which is worldwide, but the Greek authorities would not accept it until we intervened.

"It was just the most ludicrous thing to occur at the 11th hour of what has been a ridiculous affair."

But the tourists' ordeal was last night nearly over, at least until the New Year.

One of the plane spotters, Peter Norris, 52, of Uxbridge, Middlesex, said moments after his release: "It is just a relief. It has been an unbelievable few weeks. I just want to get home and be with my family."

The group will have to return to Greece next year to stand trial on allegations of gathering secret information after judges this week dropped the spying charges.

They were arrested on November 8 for allegedly taking photos of a military base during an air show in the town of Kalamata.

Families in England welcomed news of their release and said there would be celebrations over the weekend.

Adele Yon, sister of York man Andrew Jenkins, 32, said: "It is the day we have all been waiting for."

A spokeswoman for the Foreign Office said: "This is very good news and we are glad all 12 have been released together and will be back for Christmas."