Des and Mary Byrne, both in their late sixties and early seventies, returned to the United Kingdom after experiencing a distressing situation during their retirement in Thailand.

The couple had moved to Hua Hin, where they purchased a villa but found themselves caught in a violent property dispute with neighbours.

In December 2023, an altercation erupted over a garden, which led to both Des and Mary being seriously injured in an attack by two local residents.

The situation escalated to the point where the Thai authorities became involved, and both parties were encouraged to file charges against one another.

This twist led the Byrne couple to fear potential imprisonment amid their ongoing legal troubles.

The legal aftermath of the incident saw the couple's passports confiscated by Thai officials, resulting in a protracted wait for a court appearance that lasted several months.

Charges against the couple and their assailants were formally laid in June 2024, adding further stress to their situation.

In March 2025, after a long delay, the couple finally had their day in court.

They were ultimately fined, and their passports were returned, allowing them to leave Thailand.

Since their return to the UK, they have expressed relief and happiness at being back home.

The couple, initially planning to retire in Thailand, has now shifted their focus to finding a home in Middlesbrough.

They have been staying with a family in Berkshire since their repatriation and are in the process of settling back into life in Teesside.

Mary Byrne articulated her joy at returning to the English countryside, stating that being home has significantly aided their recovery from the traumatic events they faced.

The couple looks forward to rebuilding their lives in the UK, moving past the ordeal that marred their dream of retirement in Thailand.