THE DETERMINATION of a former Peebles man, who fought to fly his family from Hong Kong to celebrate the Beltane Festival traditions he grew up with, has paid off.

Big-hearted Peebleans rallied to support Graham Hamilton, who almost had his dream holiday ruined when UK immigration officials rejected the application of their Filipina domestic helper Tes to join them on their trip.

The appeal, featured in the Peeblesshire News, was also supported by Tweeddale MP David Mundell and council leader Shona Haslam, who used their influence to overturn the decision.

The town’s motto ‘Contra Nando Incrementum’ which means ‘Against the stream they multiply’ – was displayed in true spirit, with family and friends speaking out in support of Graham, fondly known in the town as Hammy.

And help Hammy they did, as he and his wife Jacqui, their twins boys Lachlan and Braedan, along with Tes, arrived in Peebles decked out in the Beltane colours.

Graham said the family would not have been complete without Tes.

She told the Peeblesshire News this week: “I was really disappointed and surprised that the visa was refused after Graham had completed the supporting letter for me. I am amazed at the response from the people of Peebles after Graham added me to the Auld Peebles Facebook page. I was so surprised that strangers thousands of kilometres away would be so kind and supportive.

“I was so excited when I found out they [officials] were going to allow me to come. After hearing my employers talking about Peebles and the Beltane Festival for so many months, and also all the amazing things there is to see and do in Peebles and Scotland, I was really disappointed at the refusal.

“I was shocked that a UK Government minister [Mr Mundell] would step in to help my case. I am certain without his support and help the decision wouldn’t have been overturned.”

Speaking about the festival which kicks off this Sunday, Tes said: “I am really looking forward to it. It is nothing like anything we have in the Philippines. I am very thankful for all the support from the local community and want to thank everyone for helping to get me to visit Scotland and the Beltane for the first time.”

Mr Mundell (Cons) said: “I am very pleased that, in light of the additional information supplied, the previous refusal decision has been rescinded.”

A happy ending to this Beltane fairytale, but there will be one family member missing from the Hamilton clan as they watch the festival parades on Peebles High Street. He’ll be dressed in red and white wearing a dickie bow tie and tooting a merry song remembering ‘Beltane in the aulden times’ – as Graham Hamilton marches with pride along with members of the Silver Band.