The friends and families of the 15 sailors and marines seized by Iran 13 days ago spoke this afternoon of their joy at their release, which caught many off-guard.

Chris Penfold, a friend of sailor Nathan Summers, watched today’s press conference with crowds of local well-wishers at the Cornubia pub in Mr Summers’ Cornish home village of Copperhouse. He said it had been a “long hour”.

He explained that President’s Mahmoud Ahmedinejad’s announcement came as a surprise at the end of a rambling – sometimes fiery – speech. “It’s fantastic. The whole thing is amazing.”

“The relief is immense, it’s unbelievable. I’m shaking. I’m so excited.”

That sense of disbelief and delight was shared by Sandra Sperry, mother of marine Adam Sperry. Mrs Sperry was shopping in Asda when she heard the news. She told Sky News she had not believed the release could come before the end of next week.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic,” she said. “I never expected it.”

Later, Nathan Summers’ grandparents, Brian and April Rowsthorne, arrived at the Cornubia. They were also unprepared for the announcement. Mr Rowsthorne said he had “downed tools” as soon as he heard the news so he could celebrate with friends and relatives.

He said he and his wife were “over the moon”. Mrs Rowsthorne said they had been “absolutely devasted” at their grandson’s ordeal.

Mrs Sperry also spoke of the “absolute hell” she had been through. But – like Maggie Smith, the sister of sailor Arthur Bachelor – she praised the Ministry of Defence, who she said had kept her up to date with the latest developments with frequent phone calls.

Many relatives spoke of the support offered by friends, neighbours and colleagues. Mrs Sperry said: “The amount of support I've had from everybody, it's unbelievable. My house looks like a florist.”

They also told of their pride in their loved-ones’ endurance. Mrs Rowsthorne said: "Nathan's a very quiet person but I think he's handled himself wonderfully.” Her husband added: "He's gone from a boy to a man."

Tonight, the Cornubia was packed with friends and relatives toasting Mr Summers’ release with champagne. But in Plymouth, Arthur Bachelor’s sister sounded a cautious note. “I don’t think I’ll be very happy until he’s on that plane and stood in front of us.”

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