After seven years living in south Essex, a 27-year-old Albanian is bidding a fond farewell to the friends who have become his family.
Kas - sad to be leaving south Essex and his new-made friends Picture: LUAN MARSHALL
Kastriot Masha, of Southend Road, Corringham, first came to England in 1997 after travelling through Europe.
The sales rep said he couldn't speak a word of English when he arrived and came to work, learn the language and experience life in another country.
Because he did not have a visa, he had to go through a long, drawn-out and costly battle with the Home Office - which has now forced him to leave the country.
But before he leaves, Mr Masha, known as Kas to his friends, wanted to say a heartfelt thanks and goodbye to all the friends who made his stay such a "wonderful experience".
He said: "I have had the most fantastic time of my life and made friends I will never forget.
"When I arrived, my intention was to learn about the English culture and how people live. I have made so many English friends here and have not just stayed in the Albanian community.
"At first I worked in the kitchens, as I couldn't speak English, but through family and friends I learned the language."
When Mr Masha met Robb Harman, then director of the Wickford printing company PCS, he didn't realise how he would change his life.
Mr Masha was invited to live with the Harman family and said Mr Harman, his wife Sally and their three children were "more than family" and had treated him "like a son".
He said it was the love and respect of people like the Harmans and other friends Anne and Andy Biddle - many of whom he met through All Saints Church in Grays - that had made him stay so long.
Mr Masha has held at least two simultaneous jobs for most of his time in the country, including at the Watermill restaurant in Basildon.
He is also proud of the fact he never claimed any benefits and turned his back on the criminal world to access documents or benefits.
Mr Masha said: "I don't just want to live on a £40-a-week benefit when I know that I am quite capable of working and living the life I would like."
Published Monday August 9, 2004
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