Paul Spiers, a beloved street cleaner, raised a pint in sunny Portugal, telling supporters he’s having the time of his life. The 63-year-old, who adores Elvis, finally made it to the Algarve after his employer, Veolia, initially blocked a community-funded trip due to strict gift acceptance rules.
Over 200 Beckenham residents raised more than £3,000 to send Paul on his second foreign holiday. However, Veolia stepped in, citing contractual obligations with Bromley Council that prohibit staff from accepting monetary gifts.
Paul, known for playing Elvis and Motown tunes while cleaning streets, became a national figure after his story gained attention. A travel firm, OnTheBeach, then created a “competition” tailored for Paul, ensuring he’d win the trip.
🇬🇧STREET SWEEPER FINALLY GETS HOLIDAY AFTER BOSSES BANNED A CROWDFUND FOR HIM
Paul Spiers, 63, had only ever been on a foreign holiday once before when locals, impressed with his hard work and caring attitude, launched a fundraiser to send him on holiday.
After it raised over… pic.twitter.com/zmR9zWBs0v
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) August 19, 2024
Relaxing at the Monica Isabel Beach Club in Albufeira, Paul expressed immense gratitude to his supporters. He shared his disbelief at the generosity shown, contrasting his usual holidays in Great Yarmouth or Kent with the beauty of Portugal.
Paul’s trip to Portugal was made possible after OnTheBeach organised a bespoke all-inclusive prize. He and his brother Dave, 66, flew from Gatwick to Faro, enjoying VIP lounge treatment at the airport.
Paul, who had only flown once before at age 60, described his smooth flight experience. Upon arrival, they were whisked away in a private transfer to their seaside resort, where they celebrated with Champagne.
Paul eagerly embraced the local culture, even trying new foods at the buffet and enjoying the beach. He humorously recounted mistaking calamari for onion rings and breaded pork for hash browns.
During his stay, Paul planned to explore the coastline, go dolphin spotting, and visit Albufeira’s old town. He is enjoying the relaxation, a stark contrast to his daily 22,000 steps at work.
Paul’s unexpected popularity following the viral story has lifted his spirits. Dave noted how the experience has brought Paul out of his shell and inspired hopes for future travels together.
Lisa Knight, the estate agent who initiated the fundraising, expressed her joy at Paul’s holiday success, thanking the generous Beckenham community.
Veolia, while adhering to contractual rules, had no objection to Paul accepting OnTheBeach’s prize and donated £3,000 to Cancer Research. Paul expressed no hard feelings towards his bosses, appreciating their support and the community’s love.
Looking ahead, Paul plans to work until 70 and hopes to travel more, potentially exploring Spain or Lisbon with his brother’s help.
OnTheBeach’s chief customer officer, Zoe Harrie, celebrated Paul’s long-awaited trip, expressing happiness for Paul and the public who cheered him on. Veolia reiterated its stance on gift acceptance but supported Paul’s competition win and community recognition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was Paul Spiers initially prevented from going on his dream holiday?
Veolia’s rules prohibited workers from accepting gifts, including the crowdfunded trip.
How did Paul eventually get to go on his holiday?
Travel firm OnTheBeach created a ‘competition’ tailored for Paul, allowing him to win the trip.
What was Paul’s reaction to finally being in Portugal?
Paul said he was having the time of his life and couldn’t thank people enough.
What did the community in Beckenham do to support Paul?
Over 200 neighbors raised more than £3,000 to send Paul on his holiday.
How did Veolia respond to the public backlash?
Veolia matched the crowdfunded amount and donated it to Cancer Research.