Facebook page to save a Grangemouth man from going back to Germany gains momentum

Published 28th Feb 2016

A Facebook page to try and save a Grangemouth man from going back to Germany is gathering momentum.

Carsten Steenvinkel moved to Grangemouth in 2005 after an online friendship with Elizabeth Robertson turned to romance.

Since then he has worked at the Asda warehouse in Falkirk and has also studied at Forth Valley College.

But, when Carsten was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy and became unfit to work he was told by the department for work and pensions told he wasn't entitled to any money as he didn't have the right to reside.

With no income he now faces returning to Germany on Monday (29th February), leaving behind his family, including step children and four grandchildren.

He and Elizabeth are now divorced, but remain good friends. Elizabeth set up the page 'Bring Grandad Home' and says 'he is a muuch loved Step Dad and Grandad and his family are devestated he's having to go.'

They're hoping the page will bring Carsten's situation to the attention of the local MP, MSP and local authority.