Little Sahil Saeed was safely back in his mother's arms today after his two-week kidnap ordeal finally came to an end.

The five-year-old, kidnapped two weeks ago by an armed gang during a family holiday in Pakistan, was reunited with his overjoyed mum Akila Naqqash last night.

Their emotional reunion came after he was brought back to Britain by his father, Raja Naqqash Saeed, on a flight to Manchester from Pakistan.

Akila, 31, was overcome with tears as she hugged tightly the son she had feared she might never see again.

Mum, dad and son emerged on to the steps of their Oldham home at 8pm last night to thank dozens of well-wishers who had gathered outside.

Under a banner saying 'welcome home, Sahil', the little boy buried his face in his mother's neck while she cradled him in her arms – her face lit up with a huge smile.

Then she passed him over to Raja who brushed his son's face before waving and going back into the house with Akila.

Family last night described the moment that Sahil was reunited with his mother.

Iftikhar Ahmed said: “He jumped into her arms.

“He was just really happy to see his sisters but he's also so tired.

“I don't think he fully understands what's going on. The last two weeks everybody has been so upset but tonight is special.”

Party

There was a party atmosphere in the street last night, with a constant stream of presents and food being brought to the packed house where Sahil was getting used to family life again.

The walls were festooned with balloons and fireworks were let off to mark the little boy's safe return.

Hamzah Ifthikar – Sahil's 16-year-old cousin – said: “I couldn't believe it when I finally saw him.

“He doesn't look any different – apart from his hair.

“I am so happy we got our happy ending.”

Raja and Sahil had flow in on Pakistan International Airlines flight PK701, which touched town at Manchester airport at around 6.30pm.

Heart-warming TV footage had earlier shown Sahil being reunited with his father at the home of the British High Commissioner in Islamabad.

Raja, 28, could be seen rubbing the head of his son, who was shaven by the kidnappers during his ordeal.

Then Sahil ould be seen waving at his mother Akila Naqqash back home and telling her: “I love you, mummy.”