Former Manchester United footballers Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs have become a hot topic of conversation after news broke on Sunday that they were allowing squatters to stay in their boutique hotel.
The exclusive premises, which will feature a basement gym, spa and rooftop private members’ terrace, is undergoing extensive renovations before opening its doors to paying guests. After a group of squatters and housing activists began occupying the property, everyone – including the squatters – expected the usual response: that the owners would obtain a court order to get them evicted. Instead, the football stars told the squatters they could stay throughout the winter months.
The gesture of kindness led to the activist leading the protest to break down in tears. Here’s how other people reacted to the story – from announcing that they’d had their faith restored in Premier League footballers, to calling for David Cameron to take note, and even asking for Giggs to be canonised by the pope.
A turning point has happened; the day the footballers showed more compassion than the policy makers. Nice work Mr Neville and Mr Giggs.
— I haven't (@witchesvictim) October 19, 2015
Normally hate footy but good on Gary Neville for the #sockexchange hope it leads to something more permanent for Manchester's homeless.
— Victoria Melody (@victoriamelody) October 19, 2015
David Cameron should learn from Neville and Giggs.
— kishore kumar (@Kishore_Adored) October 19, 2015
Well done Gary Neville and Ryan Giggs for stepping in when the Government fails on the homeless #NevilleandGiggs
— Philip Prince (@PhilipIndigo) October 19, 2015
Yes, it is possible to do business without losing your soul! Very proud of Gary & Ryan! http://t.co/B1twOA7xyG
— Philip Strong (@philipstrong) October 19, 2015
If only this were normal behavior for property owners: http://t.co/AS6LZOu5rB
— Aimee Inglis (@aimeeinglis) October 19, 2015
Neville and Giggs trending. Nice touch - good on the lads. But still 100% more than I've seen any UK homelessness-related topic trend.
— Garrie Coleman (@garrie_coleman) October 19, 2015
Another story that restores your faith in the Premier League footballers. Not all bad #EPL #MUFC http://t.co/cdwyqpLleu
— Sean Royce (@seanroyce1) October 19, 2015
Can't take the class out of the class of '92 http://t.co/wm7R9FiLXr #mufc #ggmu
— MalikG (@Devil_InRed) October 19, 2015
If Giggs doesn't get knighted now, then the pope should make him a Saint.
— Kevin McKinless (@KevinMcKinless) October 19, 2015
