A BLACKWOOD man is still jailed in Indonesia due to visa irregularities – and his local AM has called on the country to hear an appeal as soon as possible.

Mathew Davies, 25, from Cefn Fforest, was locked up after he stayed in the country longer than his visa allowed.

He was sentenced to six months, but prosecutors objected as this was less than two thirds of the jail term they had sought.

Plaid Cymru AM for South Wales East Lindsay Whittle received a letter from the British Embassy in Jakarta, saying: “Mathew will remain in Cipinang prison until the decision on the appeal has been made.

“This is clearly not the outcome Matthew or his family were hoping for. Consular officers in London remain in contact with his family to provide support and updates wherever possible.”

In the letter Rebecca Razavi, Deputy Head of Mission, said Mr Davies had been put in touch with Prisoners Abroad to provide assistance as well as an independent lawyer.

Lindsay Whittle wrote to UK Ambassador in the Indonesian capital, Jakarta before Christmas. He said: “It must have been shattering for Matthew and his family.”

Mr Davies’ mother Yvonne Davies said: “I’m just taking things one day at a time. I’m obviously hoping he will be home as soon as possible.”