Backpackers slam FO after harrowing return to UK from Cambodia

Fife couple call for extra government effort to assist Britons stranded overseas

A Fife traveller has called for more government help for Britons stranded abroad after “distressing” efforts to get home from Cambodia.

Jack Mclean and girlfriend Grace Goldsmith were among 103 people who made it on to a flight to Heathrow, chartered by English schoolteacher Jerry Lewis but the pair said they received no Foreign Office support.

The 23-year-old from Crail said desperate individuals had been forced to make their own arrangements when commercial flights were cancelled.

While he and Grace managed to get home safely, they have expressed

“I’m worried for those still stranded abroad without the assistance of the UK Foreign Office.

JACK MCLEAN

concern for at least 200 other Britons still stuck in the Asian country.

“While the Home Office was advising us to return using commercial flights that were being repeatedly cancelled, individuals have had to take it upon themselves to charter airlines to get us home safe,” said Jack.

“This was incredibly distressing for all those involved and I’m worried for those still stranded abroad without the assistance of the UK Foreign Office.”

Jack and Grace were on a threemonth trip to Asia after finishing their studies at Edinburgh and Dundee Universities respectively.

They had been due to return home last week when the coronavirus pandemic worsened and airports began closing.

“There was literally no information,” said Jack. “We turned up at the airport and no one had a clue what to do.

“What happened to us was the closest thing to a miracle I’ve ever had in my life. Lots of other people are still trying to get out.”

The Foreign Office said it was spending £75 million to support efforts to bring Britons back to the UK.

Jack Mclean and girlfriend Grace Goldsmith who have recently arrived home from Cambodia.