Very happy ex-pats abroad

HERE are some familiar faces from Huddersfield who are spending Christmas and the New Year in Spain.

All are friends of former Huddersfield pub landlord and gymnast Brian Hayhurst and his wife Elaine and they either live in Spain or have holiday homes there.

Brian said: “New Year’s Eve is the party big time, halting briefly just before midnight for an attempt at grape eating – one grape on each chime of the local church bell – hopefully washed down with copious amounts of Cava.

“The main event for kids is January 6 when the Three Wise Kings come to give them their main presents and surprises ... and on the 7th it’s back to school.”

Jeff, Christine and Steve Parkin moved to Spain in 2001 after Chrissy sold her thriving hair salon in Rawthorpe after 40 years. Chrissy was Kirklees Ladies squash champion. At about the same time husband Jeff was a Yorkshire veterans team champion. He still enjoys paddle tennis and golf and he’s a marshall at a prestigious Marbella Club.

Graham and Val Stacey have had a holiday home on the Costa for years but this was their first Christmas there. Graham said: “In Spain I have found many outlets and groups to enjoy my sport passion. I try to participate in something every day – racquetball, golf, cycling and tennis which burn off the good living.”

Brian and Elaine have known Colin and Angela Whiteley for 16 years.

Formerly from Guiseley, this fun loving couple set up the largest private mobile phone company in the UK from nothing back in the 1980s. Colin used to be in a cabaret band and played at all the larger clubs and venues in Huddersfield.

Allen and Elaine Conroy from Huddersfield spent most of their Christmases in the Middle East during their working lives, but this one was enjoyed in Spain. They’ve had two massive trees beautifully decorated and every room in their house filled with lighting, trimmings and festive songs blasting out.