From the airport to the beach, we've captured street cleaner Paul's first photos from his long-awaited second holiday in Albufeira, Portugal.

Paul Spiers, 63, has spent years brightening Beckenham’s streets with his dedicated cleaning and infectious cheer, often accompanied by the lively tunes of Elvis from his portable speaker.

Paul off on his holiday to PortugualPaul off on his holiday to Portugual (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach)

This weekend, Paul embarked on an exciting getaway, flying out from Gatwick Airport to Faro.

He was warmly welcomed with a transfer to the Monica Isabel Beach Club—the very hotel where he celebrated his 60th birthday on his first-ever holiday.Paul relaxing at the hotelPaul relaxing at the hotel (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach) The hotel boasts stunning views of the beach, offering a perfect backdrop for a range of activities. With several pools to cool off in, it’s an oasis just six minutes from the heart of Albufeira.

Joined by his brother David, Paul is ready to indulge in a week of pure relaxation, soaking up the 32-degree sunshine at this idyllic beachside resort.Paul on the highly anticipated flight

Paul on the highly anticipated flight (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach) At the airport, Paul and his brother were treated to complimentary lounge access, a delightful perk arranged by the holiday company, On the Beach.

In a heart-warming gesture, they organised a special "competition" designed with Paul in mind, ensuring he would be the winner as a way to thank him for the joy and dedication he has brought to the community over the years.
Paul enjoying his free access to the Gatwick loungePaul enjoying his free access to the Gatwick lounge (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach)

Paul said: “It’s been an incredible week and I am so thankful for the support of the local community, my friends, family and On the Beach.

“Me and my brother David are sat in the sunshine, relaxing and enjoying our holiday already.”Sunny skies and good vibes for PaulSunny skies and good vibes for Paul (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach)

Paul's story captured the attention of On The Beach after the community rallied around him, organizing a fundraiser to send him back to Portugal for his birthday. Local residents and businesses came together to make this heartfelt gesture a reality.

Lisa Knight, a friend and neighbour, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover the costs of Paul’s holiday.

However, Beckenham and Penge MP Liam Conlon later disclosed in a letter to Bromley Council that Veolia, Paul’s employer, informed him he couldn’t accept the money due to contractual restrictions with the council.Paul enjoying a coffee on his balconyPaul enjoying a coffee on his balcony (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach)

His employer, Veolia, cited policies preventing staff from accepting monetary gifts outside of their pay structure, but agreed to match the funds raised as of August 9, with the amount to be donated to a charity of Paul’s choice.

Despite the setbacks, in the end Paul’s holiday was made possible by the package holiday company, On the Beach, who organised a special "competition" that ensured Paul would be the winner.Thumbs up for Paul Thumbs up for Paul (Image: Paul Spiers/OntheBeach)

Lisa, Local Resident and Branch Manager at John D Wood & Co. in Beckenham said: “I’m overjoyed that Paul is finally on a beach enjoying his dream holiday. When I started the fundraising this is all I wanted to happen.

“So to know he is in the sunshine enjoying some well-deserved relaxation makes me and I’m sure the rest of the UK incredibly happy.

“I want to say a huge thank you to the local community in Beckenham who have been so generous and have supported this cause right from the very start – it is a true testament to what a special place it is.”