Imminent threat of deportation put on hold

A mother told she could be deported if she did not leave the UK this week has said she is “relieved” her case has been put on hold.

Volha Merry, known as Olya, is originally from Belarus but now lives in Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, with her husband Derek and their two-yearold daughter.

The 28-year-old had received a Home Office letter saying she could be deported if she did not leave the UK this week.

Now, following political intervention, the family has been told a review of the case will be carried out– meaning a temporary stay on the deportation threat.

Mrs Merry said she was “delighted” at the development but also wants the case to be resolved so her family can stay together permanently.

She said: “I felt relieved [on hearing of the review], it was a delight for me, my husband and daughter.

“I felt relieved for the time being though because my problem still remains.

“It am grateful to all of those who got involved and who made it happen but at the same time I would like my resident’s card.”

Earlier she said she had struggled to get permission to stay in the UK since marrying Derek five years ago, and he said he was “terrified” of losing his family.