A Bierley man who has been imprisoned in Africa for murder is bearing up well, say friends.

Jacques Lapergue was arrested on Friday following his discovery of a dead body in the road in Chipata, Zambia.

Mr Lapergue has done a lot of missionary work and friends say that the generous man of faith would "give his last penny if someone just asked for it".

He was this week being visited by the Consul at the French Embassy to Zambia and Malawi, Sandar Chanemougam, and has received support from Bradford politicians Richard Corbett MEP and Mr Lapergue's MP Gerry Sutcliffe.

Franck Berthebaud is co-director of the Antique Glass Studio, a stained-glass manufacturer in Bierley Lane which was founded by Mr Lapergue.

Mr Berthebaud has been in contact with Andrew Martin, a friend of Mr Lapergue whom he was visiting when he was arrested.

And according to Mr Martin, Mr Lapergue's faith in God is stronger than ever in his time of need.

Mr Berthebaud said: "Andrew has been to see Jacques and he told me that he is in good spirits.

"Apparently he was talking about God with the other people in the prison, saying he wasn't worried because God was with him."