THE Evening Press can today reveal details of a crucial fax message, telling York man Andy Jenkins and his fellow planespotters that they could visit a Greek military airbase.

The fax, headed Hellenic Air Force General Staff, was sent to Paul Coppin, leader of the group whose members are now detained in Greece.

The news prompted Andy's family to demand his immediate release, on the same day as vital evidence was expected to be handed to their judges overseeing his case.

Andy and 11 other enthusiasts were arrested on November 8 after being accused of taking details of military aircraft at a base near the Greek town of Kalamata.

The fax from Brigadier General PM Kostakos, seen by the Evening Press, said: "We are pleased to inform you that you are allowed as the public to visit the base under certain conditions that apply.

"We must warn you that photography is not allowed.

"Also, following recent international events there may be extra security measures in place, and you must carry your passport or other suitable ID at all times."

The fax also gave times and dates when the airbase would be open as part of Hellenic Air Force Celebration Days from November 8 to 11 - and the brigadier general wished them a pleasant stay.

Andy's sister, Adele Yon, said: "Andy did tell us that he had permission to be there. We always knew he had done nothing wrong.

"We always believed him and this letter proves that we were right. Now we want him to come home as quickly as possible.

"As long as he is there we fear for his health. He phoned yesterday and he said he was shivering and that he didn't feel very well. I want my brother home."

Ioannis Zacharias, defence lawyer for Andy and the other British group members, told the Evening Press: "It seems the prosecution will not regard this letter as a major factor in the defence of these people.

"Basically, they are saying: 'It was not an invitation to spy on us'."

Euro-MP Richard Howitt, who travelled to Greece to support the planespotters, said: "It's definitely a step forward. Our sincere hope is that they will drop the charges against at least some of the group."

Updated: 12:04 Friday, December 07, 2001