Warning this is going to be a long story.

Wednesday before mid-day I went to the nearby solicitor’s office in Port Talbot hoping they can notarise my sponsor letter for my Tourist Schengen Visa for Spain. Unfortunately, they couldn’t. So, they referred me to call their affiliates but same thing they won’t be able to help.

Then I started calling all firms in Neath and explained what I need and what it was for.

I called Hutchinson Thomas and spoke to Rachel. That time she already told me their schedule was booked and they can only accommodate me the coming week which not possible on my end, though she still asked me to send her the letter and the requirement so she can check. But because I need to secure my sponsor letter to be notaries a day before my visa schedule I had to keep calling different firms/office hoping to find someone who can accommodate us even for a short notice.

I was able to find and they made an appointment the next day which is Thursday at 3pm in Neath.

Thursday morning, I received a call again from Rachel to check if I already sent the documents because she did not receive an email from me. I explained to her I found a notary whom I thought can help me because I couldn’t afford to reschedule my visa appointment. Rachel was very nice and she even wished me good luck.

Unfortunately, the moment when the solicitor said he couldn’t helped me. I stepped out in his office immediately and let my partner speak to him. I called the Hutchinson Thomas’ office and hoping to reach out to Rachel again.

I was so stressed and worried how on Earth I can find a solicitor who can accommodate me at past 3pm, I was really hopeless, and partner started nagging at me.

Then I got a call back from Rachel, I explained what happened and I started begging if she can accommodate us. She said she will try but she can’t promise. So, my partner and I went to Hutchinson Thomas’ office, the moment I stepped in their office I felt good not because their office was professionally laid out but the office environment was different. Everyone’s greeted us with smile. They were all professional. I really felt something’s good going to happen. And it did!!!

Ms. Rhian Williams did notaries my sponsor letter and made sure also I have all the requirements needed for my Tourist Schengen Visa for Spain. She was professionally friendly.

Oh btw, just to give you feedback, Friday, I went to BLS in Manchester and they collected all my requirements including the notarised letter. Hopefully, my visa will get approved. (Fingers crossed)

A big shout out to Rachel! You are a heaven sent. Thank you for your patience, understanding and you are extremely helpful. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Maria Gay G. Cruz