THE devastated family of Alan Henning say they are “numb with grief” after his brutal murder by Islamic State (IS).

A video showing the beheading was released on the internet on Friday.

His widow Barbara and their children said they were "extremely proud" of the 47-year-old, who had been delivering aid to Syria when he was kidnapped.

Mrs Henning said it was the news the family hoped they would never hear.

She said: “As a family we are devastated by the news of his death. There are few words to describe how we feel at this moment. Myself, Lucy and Adam, and all of Alan’s family and friends are numb with grief.

“During this ordeal we have relied heavily on the support of many people. That support from the Government, FCO and GMP has been there from the start and has meant that we were able to get through the most awful of times.

“We always knew that Alan was in the most dangerous of situations but we hoped that he would return home to us. That is not to be.”

Mrs Henning thanked the people who had campaigned for his release and held vigils for his safe return.

Churches across Bolton and Salford will remember Mr Henning in their prayers today.

She added: “Your efforts were a great support to us, and we take comfort in knowing how many people stood beside us in hoping for the best.

“Alan was a decent, caring human being. His interest was in the welfare of others. He will be remembered for this and we as a family are extremely proud of him and what he achieved and the people he helped.

“We now need time to come to terms with our loss. “ Mr Henning was kidnapped last December in Syria by IS militants after crossing the border from Turkey with an aid convoy.