Jorge, at the sound desk at an event where Amber Rudd was one of the speakers.
Help! Deportation threat to long-term resident
Originally from Argentina, Jorge Labbe Herrera, has lived in Hastings for 18 years and has made a valuable contribution to the local community. He is now in danger of being deported. As his court appeal is at the end of January, there is no time to lose. HOT’s Chandra Masoliver talks with Jorge about his life in Hastings, and describes some of the ways he has dedicated himself to benefiting our town.
Jorge’s appeal is due to come up on either 30/31 January or 1 February at the Royal Courts of Justice, Strand, London WC2 2LL.
If you’d like to support Jorge’s appeal, here’s what you can do right now:
1. Send an email to Adrian Underhill via adrian.underhill1@gmail.com
2. Leave a comment in the HOT Comment box at the end.
Full details of how you can help Jorge can be found at the end of this article.
Jorge Labbe Herrera
CM: When you left Argentina for England in 1999, what made you decide on Hastings?
JLH: Before leaving Buenos Aires, I researched a lot of places on the internet and chose Hastings; I liked the landscape, there was the sea, it was hilly and it did not seem too cold. The town then had about 100,000 inhabitants, and coming from a big city, that felt the right size.
CM: Please tell me about your family background.
JLH: I was born in Northern Argentina in 1952. My paternal grandparents were from France and my maternal grandparents were from Sweden, so I have European roots. My father was a teacher and a business man, and my mother’s family were tea farmers. We went to their farm at weekends, and I loved it – I had a very happy childhood.
I studied Business Administration and also Electronics, which was my passion, but there weren’t many electronics factories then. At eighteen I became a DJ; I made my own amplifier, speakers, and lights – it was a fantastic feeling, creating something. I used tubes and valves, there were no transistors then, and until it was all soldered together and plugged in, I didn’t know if it would work.
Meanwhile I earned a good living, working for Lloyd’s Insurance Company, and then for Dixons. I bought a house, eventually three houses, and two shops; one I rented out, and the other was a stationary shop, where I sold many different things.
CM: It sounds like you made a good life for yourself, so why did you leave?
JLH: When Hitler lost the war, many Nazis hid in Argentina – and they brought gold and a lot of plans with them. After Galtieri, Alfonsin became President. He was against the domination of Argentina by North America. He sold aircraft missiles to Iran, so America tried to destroy Argentina. Our economy went right down. Many companies went bankrupt, and inflation was astronomical: with one million pesos you could only buy a loaf of bread and some milk – I’ve kept one of the notes.
I had thought that with two shops and a pension I would be alright, but I had to sell everything. First I sold one house, then the second one, and the last one I gave to my sister. I said I was going to England to learn English, and to make some money. I wanted to learn English English.
Jorge involved in local community work
CM: What happened when you came to Hastings? How did you adapt to all the changes?
JLH: I came to England in 1999, when I was 47. I arrived with ten thousand pounds. I rented a room and I studied English at a foreign language school. Then I finished my National Vocation Qualification (NVQ) Level 2 at Hastings College, where I studied Catering and how to become a chef. It’s good to train in several things, you get knowledge, and that’s something no-one can take away.
I found work as a chef in a nursing home, but I didn’t like it because it was all ready meals, with no skill involved. I couldn’t improve myself, so I changed career and went into building services – making kitchens, bathrooms, whatever was needed. It was a new skill, and the man I worked for said I learned like a sponge. I can make furniture too – I love wood.
Over the years I invested all my money in my passion for audio equipment. I put all my eggs in one basket, but now I can no longer use the eggs! I have done my own web page, and I can do films, audio recordings, computers, transfer of files, and music from Youtube to mp3.
And yes, I adapted. I walked everywhere – that way I got to know the local people. I love Hastings, there’s so much history around – smugglers’ caves, churches, museums. The Martello towers were built in the time of Napoleon, they are round, and they are built five hundred meters apart, so you can fire in all directions. I think they mixed in egg white to make the concrete strong.
CM: So what went wrong, Jorge?
JLH: In 2010, I had a breakdown. My UK permit expired on 29 December 2009 and at the same time my father passed away. I was very depressed through that January and February. I just felt a click in my head. The stability in my life was broken. I called Harry Underhill, my best friend for many years; I had very bad depression, and pneumonia. I went by ambulance to the Conquest Hospital. I lost a month – I have no memory of that month.
Then I was transferred to Eastbourne Psychiatric Unit. I saw people who were not there, they had no faces, but there was something moving; it was a nightmare. I couldn’t sleep, and I kept the light on because I was wary someone was in the room with me. When the door slammed, it was like a bomb, the sound was incredibly magnified.
I was there for three months; the hospital was very good to me. Some people said I couldn’t be cured, but a psychiatrist said I was incredible. My depression is always there in the background; once it catches you it doesn’t go totally. I fight against it. I have become a workaholic. Sundays are terrible.
CM: So what happened when you came out of hospital?
JLH: It was difficult. My UK permit had expired. I was not allowed to work in any paid job. And at the same time I was not eligible for any benefits, including medical and unemployment benefit. When I left hospital I had some reserves, but after a year I couldn’t pay my rent.
Before my permit had expired, I was Assistant Manager of the Chapel Park Community Centre, and everyone there tried to help me. Now I live with Baptist church members – and I help by cleaning and painting the house. The church minister also helped me and I clean the church voluntarily.
Jorge with his audio equipment.
CM: And now, how do you spend your time?
JLH: I do voluntary work. Since 1999, the charity shops I have worked for are the Salvation Army, St Michael’s Hospice, the RSPCA Bexhill, the Cat Protection Society, Cat Call, the PDSA and MENCAP. I get given food, good fruit and vegetables. People know I like biscuits, so I get given boxes of them! All the charity shops I work in say “Take what you like Jorge!” That’s how I get clothes.
I also clean the beach and the town. I volunteer at Markwick Gardens with my audio equipment and I have volunteered at The Stables and the White Rock Theatre as a sound engineer.
CM: You have created a life for yourself, in very difficult circumstances.
JLH: My philosophy is that I like to give more than to receive. I don’t expect a return, it’s a pleasure to give, an internal pleasure. I think being a good Christian is not about how much you pray, but how much you do and give to help others. It is very difficult to do this while having no status as a citizen – and I hope to be more effective if I can become a citizen again.
CM: So what is in danger of happening now?
JLH: At the end of January I have my appeal hearing.
My first court case was in 2012, the judge was impressed with me, but a woman from the Home Office said I was too old; I was using National Health money, and she saw no reason why I should stay. Two months later I heard I had won the case.
But five or six months after that, the Home Office appealed to another tribunal to overturn the earlier decision – and the appeal judge agreed with the Home Office and overturned it, removing my right to stay.
It’s the uncertainty that’s absolutely difficult to cope with. Nothing ties me to Argentina now. I want to live here in Hastings. In Argentina, neighbours are important, but community is not. There is no culture of volunteering. I want to help, like with the charities here – and I would do any work: gardening, decorating, anything.
Jorge Labbe Herrera’s appeal is due to come up on 30 or 31 January or 1 February at the Royal Courts of Justice, Strand, London WC2 2LL.
This is how to support Jorge’s appeal to stay in Hastings:
A campaign for Jorge to remain in the UK has been organised by local resident, jazz musician and friend of Jorge’s, Adrian Underhill, along with other supporters. Here’s what you can do to add your support to their campaign:
1. Please send an email to adrian.underhill1@gmail.com. Put “Please allow Jorge to stay in Hastings” as your email subject, and add your name and postcode in the body of the email
2. If you know Jorge personally – or feel strongly about issues of this nature – and would like to write some words of support for him, please add a comment in ‘HOT Comments’ below.
Your email and comment will be used to support Jorge in his case.
Jorge, Adrian, Chandra and all those involved in this campaign are very grateful for your time, energy and compassion. If you know of others who might offer Jorge their support, please forward this article to them.
If you’re enjoying HOT and would like us to continue providing fair and balanced reporting on local matters please consider making a donation. Click here to open our PayPal donation link. Thank you for your continued support!
48 Comments
Also in: Campaigns
« For the love of HOTGetting P-O-ed about the P.O. »
I cannot think of anyone, British nationals included, who has given so much of their time and great spirit to oour Hastings community, spanning the 9 years I have known Jorge.
All I”ve witnessed of Jorge is a hard working man who”s held many long-standing volunteering roles…what a credit to our society.
Comment by Deirdre Shallooe — Monday, Jan 29, 2018 @ 17:42
Dear Georgina, Sylvia and Jean,
Thank you for your time – and your thoughtful and passionate words.
Please carry on spreading the word to those who know Jorge – and encourage them to respond. It will we hope really make the Home Office realise that Jorge is a much valued citizen and people wang him to be allowed to stay here. Therefore, his expulsion would not only affect him, but all the people he is connected with.
All good wishes,
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Thursday, Jan 25, 2018 @ 09:18
As trustees of Hastings & Bexhill Mencap we were devastated and shocked that Jorge has been threatened with deportation. He is a true asset to Hastings and St Leonards and many people who live here. He has enhanced all of our lives with the work he has unstintingly volunteered to do for many local charities and organisations. No task seems too large or small for him to do willingly, cheerfully, diligently and professionally.
His support is manifold. Without him what will our charity loose? He is a fine upstanding man whom deserves to live the rest of his life in Hastings which he now thinks of as his one and only true home. He would be especially missed by all his friends in our local charity shop.
Comment by Georgina Holmes, Sylvia Barnes & Jean Tree — Thursday, Jan 25, 2018 @ 09:09
Thank you Jacqui, I hear the sincerity and power of your words, alongside all of the other messages we’ve received.
Chandra will be back at her HOT desk very soon and she will, I know, want to write something too – about the lovely response from people and how heart-warming this is – and for Jorge to know there are people that wish for him to stay here.
All good wishes,
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Wednesday, Jan 24, 2018 @ 14:39
I too work with this lovely gentleman. It seems disgraceful to me that after 18 years of asking very little from this country and giving so much. ( including paying tax and national insurance when he did work) he arrived here with his own money. He now gives his time for free to many charities. He should be commended not persecuted. Let him stay. He couldn’t help becoming ill. It could happen to anyone. Jorge and his skills are very much needed.
Comment by Jacqui hawkins — Wednesday, Jan 24, 2018 @ 14:03
Dear Shirley, Ms.Doubtfire and Mr and Mrs Stanton, Thank you for your messages. Jorge is very grateful for all the support he has received. We at HOT, along with all of our readers who have written to us, hope that this support will make a difference to the outcome of his court case. All good wishes, Zelly (in Chandra’s absence).
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Tuesday, Jan 23, 2018 @ 22:52
We have known Jorge for over three years. He has always been polite, friendly, willing to help in many ways and despite his difficult situation manages to preserve a sense of humour. We know of his voluntary work and of his versatile creativity. It would be a great shame to deport a man who has done such good work in the community and for so many years. We do hope that his situation is finally resolved and Jorge stays.
Mr and Mrs Stanton
Comment by Mr and Mrs Stanton — Tuesday, Jan 23, 2018 @ 22:12
Why does the Home office wait for nearly two decades before they decide to evict a resident from the UK? There is something very wrong where a democratic government can do this. Jorge must not be sent back to Argentina and our MP and Home Secretary should be making every effort to revoke this deportation order without further delay.
Comment by Ms.Doubtfire — Monday, Jan 22, 2018 @ 09:57
A very decent human being who is clearly an asset to the community and who has made his life here. What a story! He deserves to stay and be given citizenship. Shirley Hassan
Comment by Shirley Hassan — Monday, Jan 22, 2018 @ 07:07
Dear Pauline and Fiona, Thank you for your time. I have been in touch with Jorge – and he is very happy and warmed by all the comments of support. Keep them coming! Spread the word. All your words will be presented to our MP and Home Secretary, Amber Rudd – with the hope of intervention and a decision to allow Jorge to stay in the UK.
All good wishes,
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Friday, Jan 19, 2018 @ 08:19
I do not know Jorge personally but I do recognise him from the photograph and realise I have been served by him in a charity shop on the Kings road. I wholeheartedly support his application to stay after 18 years in this country and I think it would be detrimental to his mental health to have to build a life again from scratch in another country at his age now.
He has obviously made many friends here and contributed a lot to the local community. I wish him all the very best and I hope all the messages of support bring him some comfort.
Comment by Fiona Pienkowska — Thursday, Jan 18, 2018 @ 22:51
Dear Pam, Steve, Ann, Lena and Sylvia,
Once again, I sobbed as I read your HOT Comments – your lovely words added to all the others expressing your heartfelt feelings and desire for Jorge to remain where he is, to carry on doing what he does, which is clearly offering a highly valuable contribution to the people – and to the town – of Hastings and St Leonards on Sea.
When we offered people the opportunity to write in response to this case, we had no idea what would happen. And now, in such a short time – and you are still writing to us, sending your words of support.
It is hugely heartwarming and reassuring to know that there is so much kindness and love out there in our world.
I know that Chandra intends to go along to the court case in London and will write an article about this experience.
And thank you to Adrian Underhill for offering his support to this campaign.
We – all of us – are little links in the chain – and each link is essential and makes a difference.
With appreciation and gratitude, on behalf of Chandra, HOT and Jorge.
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Thursday, Jan 18, 2018 @ 09:34
Jorge is one of those rare people who want to give more than they receive. He is a real asset to our diverse and wonderful town where without people like Jorge we would struggle to provide the charitable services so many of our residents rely on. Jorge has more than proven his right to live here by firmly cementing himself into the local community through his tireless voluntary work. He is a real asset to our Charity shop, where his skills have enable us to sell goods we otherwise would not have been able to. He is a true gentleman, all the customers and staff think very highly of him and should he be made to leave he would leave a huge hole that I cannot imagine how we would fill.
Please see sense and let Jorge stay in the country he has lived in for so many years, where he is a valuable and much loved member of the community, and where he calls home.
Comment by Pauline Fletcher — Thursday, Jan 18, 2018 @ 08:58
I work at one of the charity shops that Jorge helps us ,what an amazing man ,nothing is to much trouble to make our shop better he has many ideas to make us more space ,we will be lost without him .Such a kind and caring man please on behalf of us all allow him to stay ,our shop will be a sadder place without him
Comment by Pam morgan — Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 @ 22:32
Jorge is a very talented and creative person. I have known him for many years and volunteered with him for two years at the Cats Protection charity shop in London Road. He tested and repaired electrical items and it was fascinating watching him at work. He also had a good eye for spotting rare and valuable items that could be sold online to make extra money for the charity. He is one of the kindest and most generous people I have had the good fortune to know. He has given his time freely to help others in the community and, despite all the problems he has had, refuses to let things get on top of him. It is difficult to understand why the Home Office now want to deport him and it would be a great loss to our town if he were to go. Is this how we reward people who have contributed in the way he has? His friends (of which I count myself one) would miss him very much. His home is here in Hastings.
Comment by Steve Waters — Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 @ 20:15
The comment below is from Adrian Underhill,
There is a typo in my name there.
It should be spelled as in this comment
My email is at top and bottom of the article. Adrian
Comment by Adrian Underhill — Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 @ 17:49
Jorge works as a volunteer with me in the Mencap shop in Kings Road St Leonards on Sea. Im very upset that he may have to leave through no fault of his own. He has become an absolutely vital member of our team, no job is too much for Jorge all our other volunteers can often be heard saying “dont worry Jorge will know what to do” he does all our electrical pat testing (he has tested over a thousand items in the last couple of years) this has meant our shop takings and therefore contribution to Mencap has increased untold. Jorge is always happy to partake in any job that needs doing, how he comes up with all his ideas I do not know but I do know that we will be at a loss if he has to leave the country. He is a real asset to Mencap and indeed Hastings and I do hope the authorities realise that they would be losing a good, outstanding, kind, thoughtful and valued member of our society. I sincerely hope the court can see that it would be inhuman to deport Jorge at this time in his life and allow him to continue being the gentleman that he so clearly is.
Comment by Ann Edgington — Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 @ 17:41
This is to say a really big thanks to everyone for these touching, powerful and helpful comments, and to those of you who have sent in so many email signatures.
We will put all these together and send a letter to our local MP Amber Rudd, and ask her advice about the case, and what intervention she can make on Jorge’s behalf. We will also make a dossier that Jorge can present along with his other papers at the hearing
A few years ago after Jorge’s visa ran out his renewal was refused … But then an appeal judge ruled in favour of Jorge staying for reasons similar to those you have stated above….. But this ruling in favour was challenged by the Home Office and overruled at a second hearing. Now the final appeal is in just 2 or 3 weeks time.
So it is possible to overturn a ruling! Please keep comments and emails coming!
I am confident this can make the difference!
Comment by Adrian Underhikk — Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 @ 16:26
I heartily endorse Jorg’s right to stay in this country. He has shown such resilience, creativity and generosity his life, we need Jorg and more people like him in our society.
Comment by Lena Hughes — Wednesday, Jan 17, 2018 @ 13:25
Jorge is one of the good guys. He adds value to Hastings with everything he does. He is a kind, decent, friendly and genuine man who has contributed more to Hastings than most people – what a mean little country we have become when we know the cost of everything and the value of nothing. How the Home Office can think in such a mean spirited way when Jorge has lived his life in such a warm and generous way is beyond me. Jorge must stay.
Comment by Sylvia Worthy — Tuesday, Jan 16, 2018 @ 17:30
Dear Sara, Angus, Harry, Angie, Chris and Deborah,
Thank you all for your taking the time to write in support of Jorge. Every word makes a difference.
With appreciation,
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Sunday, Jan 14, 2018 @ 20:58
We have known Jorge for some eight years. Jorge is a modest, generous,helpful and kind-hearted man who plays a very active part in the community, participating extensively in local charities. His contribution to Hastings speaks for itself. He is an undoubted asset to Hastings society. We are hoping that in noting his exceptional qualities the Court will take a sympathetic and compassionate view and allow this very valued member of the community leave to remain in this country.
Comment by Chris & Deborah Hinman — Sunday, Jan 14, 2018 @ 20:29
I can only assume that this country has gone mad and feel ashamed to hear of such actions. Jorge, you are obviously a marvellous person who helps so many – but even if you were just an ordinary person doing not much, then still you should have the right to stay. Hastings is your home! This comes with all good wishes. I hope to meet you one day as I would like to thank you for all the kind things you’ve done for my friend, Jackie Oxbury.
Comment by Angie Phillip — Sunday, Jan 14, 2018 @ 15:49
I first met Jorge in 2000 when he was working for a building firm. Later, when he was self-employed, he was invaluable to me in maintaining my house, its contents, and garden, often with new ideas that were just what I needed but had not thought of! His skill with light and sound systems was most useful when we threw a big celebration for the marriage of my granddaughter last year. I also remember his breakdown and time in Hastings and Eastbourne hospitals and the many difficulties he faced on his return. He carries the shadow of depression with quiet courage, unwilling to burden other people with his problems. He is a good friend and a major asset to our Hastings society and we should do all we can to keep him here.
Comment by Harry Underhill — Saturday, Jan 13, 2018 @ 17:09
Jorge is such a gentle generous and positive person. I hope Hastings is lucky enough to keep him as part of its community.
Comment by Angus Singleton — Saturday, Jan 13, 2018 @ 10:55
As a Nurse Professional and Healthcare Educator, I am appalled that Jorge is being subjected to this narrow minded blinkered treatment. He is a wonderful asset to his community in Hastings and is an invaluable human being, who provides enormous voluntary assistance to many, including my mother. He undertakes numerous gardening and DIY tasks, that she is unable to complete now due to age and restricted mobility.
I hope that justice will prevail and that his hearing is successful for him. It would be such an incredible loss to my mother and the whole community in Hastings. Good luck Jorge and stay strong. Best wishes Sara (RGN)
Comment by Sara Oxbury Ellis — Friday, Jan 12, 2018 @ 10:29
From Jorge:
Hello Zelly,
Thank you, I’m in tears right now for such wonderful comments. I try to be happy, fighting with my depression about my unsettling situation, I want to feel free to help and live in peace.
Regards
Jorge
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Friday, Jan 12, 2018 @ 08:31
Thank you Frank. It’s clear from everything people have said here that Jorge is a kind-hearted, generous spirited soul.
*
Sometimes, I wonder what it must have been like, before the planet was covered by a web of human boundaries and delineated areas and labelled and categorised residents, rubber-stamped as owned by someone or some group of humans, who felt they had the authority to see some land or fellow humans and claim rightful possession. ‘Mine.’
And I think about how we are all descended from migrants and immigrants. Within our ancestral lineage.
And how we’re all just unique individuals of the human variety, however we are categorised and labelled.
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 23:41
A lovely and generous man who has given so much here. It’s wrong that someone who does so much for the community should have to fight to stay in Hastings while the number of second homes is on the increase!
Comment by Frank Moon — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 21:27
Dear Roz, Tim and Patrick, Thank you – and everyone – for your time.
I have heard that Jorge is very happy to receive everyone’s comments.
It is truly heart-warming to read all the messages. Please carry on spreading the word.
I believe there is a plan to approach Amber Rudd, Home Secretary and our local MP, with all supportive correspondence, to raise her awareness of Jorge’s case.
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 19:21
I have never met Jorge Herrera, but was very saddened to hear about his story, and that he may be deported. He is obviously a wonderful person who gives so much to our society through his charity work and personal support to vulnerable people. Rather than expulsion, he deserves an honour.
He is yet another example of how much migrants, economic and refugees, have contributed to creating the good things in our society and culture.
As a not so young person myself, and with a family with a history of depression and yes, migration from France, Holland, Russia, Ireland, Italy and Australia, I wish to express my solidarity with Jorge. But what should we do?
Have we asked for a meeting with Amber Rudd, who is Jorge’s MP. How has she responded to his case?
Should we write to her or anyone else to support Jorge’s appeal?
Above all I want to convey my best wishes to Jorge and my hope that he is successful in his appeal.
Comment by Patrick Burton — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 18:23
The notion that we (Britain) would deport a resident who has contributed to for so long and is still a valuable member of his community is utterly ludicrous. Of course he should be allowed and encouraged to stay.
Comment by Tim Bone — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 18:14
I lived in the house next door to where Jorge is staying for some years and he was always polite and friendly and I saw how he helped the neighbours with the garden and painting the house.
I have also seen him working in charity shops in St. Leonards. He has lived here for 18 years – t is his home, and he takes an active part in community life, an asset to our town.
Comment by Roz Cran — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 17:28
Dear Jorge
I also came from Argentina to the UK during one of our many financial upheavals ,the community in Hastings were very welcoming but it feels so unfair to have to prove you are good, to have to prove you are worth it just because you were born in a different place and to be faced with the fact that being a contribution to society is not a requirement for someone that happened to be born in Britain , the only thing that gets proven is the inequality our society lives in.I really hope the best resolution for you Jorge , remember this song? “No soy de aquí, ni soy de allá. No tengo edad, ni porvenir. Y ser feliz es mi color de identidad.” Like in the song, I hope happiness becomes your identity and you are given the freedom to stay . Un abrazo de corazón.Laura.
Comment by Laura Attwood — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 13:02
Jorge has given so much to our community and to me in a personal way. This lovely gentleman helps make it possible for me to lead an independent life in my rented basement flat. Now in my eightieth year, I have a very limited income, mobility difficulties and no family living locally. Since I moved in, Jorge has put furniture together for me, put up pictures, undertaken heavy work to find my ‘lost’ garden, installed a safety light, pinned shelves to the walls and various other useful jobs. Once a month he comes to visit, to clean windows and change light bulbs I cannot reach, clean mould from my steps and anything else which needs doing to ensure my safety. Without his help, my life would be very much harder. I know I am not the only Hastings resident to benefit from his kindness. Please let him stay. He deserves it.
Comment by Jacqueline Oxbury — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 12:02
What did our MP and Home Secretary say not so long ago?
“Compassion knows no borders”
I met Jorge many years ago. I was distressed to read his story. Where’s the Home Secretary’s compassion now?
Comment by Erica — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 12:01
Thank you Ms Doubtfire for your support for this campaign.
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 11:29
Has the Home Office gone completely crazy? Where is our Home Secretary on this one? To deport this gentleman would be nothing less than complete madness aand totally unjust. Jorge has contributed so much to this town – what has he done to deserve this shoddy treatment. This deportation must not be allowed.
Comment by Ms.Doubtfire — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 10:50
Hello to Polo, Sharon, Simon, James, Paula, as I write,
I have tears in my eyes, reading your words of warmth, encouragement and support for Jorge. For finding the time and the energy to not just empathise and feel compassion, but to take action.
I am replying to your Comments on Chandra’s behalf, as she is away from her HOT desk at this time. This article is very important to her: when she heard about Jorge’s situation, she immediately wanted to take action, to personally talk to Jorge himself and spread the word about his upcoming court case.
So please spread the word.
I am sure that every single one of your Comments will touch Jorge’s heart, whatever the outcome of his court case.
Zelly
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 08:32
As a fellow Argentinian also living in Hastings for many years now, I want to add my voice of support to Jorge’s staying in this country. Hastings needs peple like him, that get involved and help the community. Thank you to everyone trying to help him remaining in Hastings.
Polo Piatti, composer
Hastings International Composers Festival
Hastings Sinfonia Orchestra
Classicus Talks
Opus Theatre
Comment by Polo Piatti — Thursday, Jan 11, 2018 @ 07:37
This is awful, I have come across Jorge helping out at numerous charity events and he is a real asset to the community in Hastings & Rother.
I hope he wins his appeal.
Sharon x
Comment by SHARON SELLENS — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 23:27
Does this country really want to be known as “The Land of the Uncaring” where good kind people who have suffered greatly are summarily deported for no good reason. Let this man stay = he is welcome here!
Comment by Simon Marshall — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 23:06
Jorge is such an blessing to the community of Hastings. He has helped me out on a number of events and is such a pleasure to work with, as well as being a true gentlemen.
Comment by Cllr James Bacon — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 22:41
Jorge, you have my prayers and support. If you have come through such dreadful experiences of depression, you are already a hero and fighter. Hastings needs as many generous, kind people like you it can get.
Comment by Paula Radice — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 22:18
Thank you for taking the time to send Jorge your words of support, John.
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 19:36
Where is the humanity?
Jorge is a good citizen.
62 too old?
Tell that too the Queen.
Good luck Jorge.
From an expat whose partner was deported from England.
Best wishes.
Comment by John wilde — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 19:15
Thank you for taking the time to send Jorge your words of support, Ken.
Comment by Zelly Restorick — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 18:57
I was very grateful that Jorge gave freely of his time (and equipment) to support many community events in Markwick Gardens when I was chair and I know he has supported many other local causes.
The support he has been given to enable him to survive says much about his character and personal generosity.
It would be an act of callousness to deport someone who has contributed so much to our community, especially considering the health issues he has had to endure.
Comment by Ken Maitland — Wednesday, Jan 10, 2018 @ 18:32