Iran lesbian's appeal ordeal

From Sheffield Star

An Iranian lesbian who faces imprisonment and even death if she returns to her home country because of her sexuality is still in limbo waiting for a fresh appeal for asylum to be heard.

Pegah Emambakhsh first sought asylum in Sheffield in 2005, after escaping from Iran where it is claimed her lover had been arrested, tortured and sentenced to death by stoning.

But last year her application and subsequent appeal were refused, and in August she was taken to Yarlswood detention centre ready for deportation.

Campaigners in Sheffield stepped in and she was saved from being sent back, bailed, and allowed to return to the city.

In the last two weeks Pegah has received a letter from the Home Office confirming it will look at her case again, but nearly nine months on does not know when a decision will be made.

Campaigner Margaret Spooner said: "This is one of the hardest parts – the fact it goes on and on and she has no idea when something will happen."