Sam has won leave to remain in the UK

Some wonderfully good news to share!  Sam, from Malaysia, is a regular member of St Bride’s and Open Table Liverpool who has been seeking asylum here in the UK.

The Home Office rejected his initial claim and subsequent appeals. We asked people to sign this petition in July and Sam made a fresh claim for asylum with new evidence. We learned this week that Sam has been given five years leave to remain in the UK! Sam is so relieved and delighted to receive the news, an early Christmas present for him. Thank you all for your support and encouragement - it has meant to much to Sam and helped him keep his hope alive.

Watch Sam's story [2.5 minutes] - Please pray for Sam as he starts this new phase of his life in the UK.

UPDATE - Sam has given an interview to the Liverpool Echo: Man told he's 'not gay enough' to stay in UK given 'best ever Christmas present'

The Guardian has also followed up the story: Home Office gives man asylum after accepting people can be gay and single

And Huffington Post also interviewed Sam: Gay Malaysian Pensioner Granted Asylum In Time For Christmas