Street cleaner banned from hols by bosses exhibits snaps from his dream journey

On Aug 19, 2024

A much-loved London street cleaner is soaking up the rays on his dream holiday — after bosses initially tried to block the trip.

Paul Spiers, from Beckenham, had his heart set on a second vacation to the Algarve after 200 neighbours raised £3,000 to send him away. The 63-year-old is known for cheering up locals by blasting Elvis and Motown hits through a portable speaker.

The community wanted to show him their appreciation after years of brightening up their days. But waste management firm Veolia intervened, citing strict rules on employees accepting gifts.

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The story gained national attention and led to a huge public backlash. But travel firm On the Beach saved the day, offering the Crystal Palace fan an all-inclusive package.

Paul on his holiday — A travel firm devised a clever plan to make sure Paul was able to go on holiday

The holiday was put together in a specially arranged competition only Paul could win. His bosses soon U-turned, saying they had no issue with Paul accepting his “prize”.

The holiday company had said the winner of their contest “must love Elvis, be between the ages of 62 and 64, have a surname of Spiers, be a street cleaner in Beckenham and be loved by their local community”.

Paul on his sun lounger — Paul’s community wanted to show their thanks for his work

Speaking to MailOnline from his sun lounger, Paul explained he had been to Portugal once before, describing it as “paradise”. “I enjoyed it here so much last time,” he said. “It was my first ever foreign holiday and I have dreamed of coming back ever since.”

Paul was accompanied on the jaunt by his brother Dave, 66. The pair flew from Gatwick to Faro with WizzAir and were even treated to a VIP lounge experience before boarding.

Paul with his brother Dave — Paul was accompanied on the jaunt by his brother Dave
(Image: Paul Spiers)

The brothers are staying at the three-star Monica Isabel Beach Club, a resort Paul chose after his first visit to the Algarve in 2021. But he recounted a hilarious mix-up at the buffet, mistaking calamari for onion rings and breaded pork escalopes for hash browns.

“The food is great,” he added. “I’m used to cod and chips really. There’s so many dishes that I’ve never tried but I’m going to give them all a go.”

Paul Spiers — The street cleaner is a massive Elvis fan and known for blasting Motown hits on his portable speaker

His proud brother added: “Paul didn’t even have a passport until a couple of years ago. Going abroad on holiday was something other people did. It just wasn’t on his radar at all.

“I’m hoping this trip will open Paul’s eyes and that he’ll get the travelling bug. It would be lovely to go and explore more of Europe with him.”

Paul Spiers on holiday — Paul has no ill feelings towards his bosses

Following the public backlash, Veolia granted Paul an extra week’s paid leave for the holiday. The company was embarrassed further when it was revealed top boss Pascal Hauret rakes in as much as £135,958 and previously enjoyed a Caribbean getaway to Barbados.

Paul expressed no bitterness towards his bosses. In fact, he revealed plans to continue working until he turns 70.

A Veolia statement read: “We understand that Paul has won a competition and we can confirm that we have no objection to him accepting his win. We are very grateful for the support and recognition shown by the community to Paul.

“Our position regarding the funds raised by the community has not changed and the decision about what happens to that money is a matter for the fundraiser. Veolia has matched the amount raised as of Friday August 9 and this will be donated to Cancer Research, a charity close to Paul’s heart.”

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