A YORK man who won back long-lost childhood memories after an operation is set to give his family a seasonal thank-you following a change of heart from his bank.

Peter Broadhead approached Abbey National plc to ask if he could defer his mortgage payments until after Christmas, so he could surprise his family and in-laws with a few small presents to show his gratitude.

But he was turned down, leaving him feeling unable to show appreciation for the sacrifices they made since his five-and-a-half hour brain operation during the summer.

However, now the bank has apologised and said its staff will see how they can help him, including considering the possibility of deferring his mortgage payments.

The Evening Press reported last month how Peter, 40, of Carr Lane, Acomb, retrieved long-lost childhood memories after surgery to remove a growth from his brain. He received his family's support throughout the ordeal.

He said he deeply appreciated the time and energy they put into what was a difficult time for everyone.

"They have looked after me so well over the past months," he said. "They have stuck with me through some very tough times and I just wanted a bit of money so that I could surprise them by buying them something for Christmas to show my thanks."

Peter has not been able to work since the operation, and could only get together money without his family knowing by deferring his mortgage payments for two months. He planned to make up the payments when he returned to work.

"I could have easily got away with cancelling the mortgage payments altogether, and then blaming it on my condition since the operation.

"Although I got back all those childhood memories, my day-to-day memory is not what it was."

But Peter said he thought it best to play it honestly and explain the situation fully to the Abbey National.

"But they wouldn't listen to me and what had happened to me.

Abbey National spokeswoman Lucy Lambert said she understood Peter had contacted their mortgage service by telephone, adding: "We are very sorry if he has received a poor level of service from us."

She said staff at his local branch had subsequently spoken to him, adding: "They would be very happy to speak to him again and help in any way they can."

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