AT LAST the wait is over, and the Home Office has decided to let Albanian student Albert Letovica stay.

The 19-year-old orphan was fighting a deportation battle to allow him to stay in this country after September 1.

He had been a star pupil at Gravesend Grammar, and was working his way through university.

Now, after pleas from the Gravesend Messenger, Gravesham MP Adam Holloway and scores of supporters, he has been given a three-year lifeline, enabling him to complete his degree at Brighton University.

There were jubilant scenes in Pelham Road, Gravesend, as friends and family popped champagne corks to celebrate the Home Office rethink.

"I can think of the future now.," said Albert. "I hope they haven't let out my student room!"

Relieved adaoptive father Ray Chidgey said: "Common sense has prevailed."

A phone call from Gravesham MP Adam Holloway’s office at 11am on Monday gave the Chidgey family the news they had been hoping for.

Mr Chidgey said they called the immigration officer to confirm their dream verdict: "He said it’s all official, it’s on the system."

It is not yet clear as to the reasons for the Home Office U-turn. The family is hoping official paperwork arriving later will reveal more.

Tina Chidgey was stunned and then relieved at the news.

She said: "I’m so happy things can get back to normal. It was a terrible threat, it’s not something a normal family goes through."

She said they now have a three-year lifeline and hopefully one day Albert would have indefinite leave to remain.

Jean Lovering, Albert’s tutor at Northfleet School for Boys, was equally happy at the news.

"I’m overjoyed. That’s all he wanted, to finish his degree. It couldn’t have happened to a nicer person," she said.

Mr Holloway wrote to the Home Secretary on Tuesday, July 26, asking that he consider Albert as an urgent case.

Mr Holloway said: "I’m absolutely delighted. It allows Albert time to finish his degree and contribute to this country which he holds so dear."