Chinese mum-to-be facing deportation is granted visa to stay in Essex

Grace Smith had her visa application turned down three times Credit: ITV News Anglia

A heavily pregnant woman who faced being sent back to China and separated from her Essex husband has been granted a visa.

The Home Office had refused Grace Smith's application three times and her existing spouse visa expired in February.

Mrs Smith is seven months pregnant and expecting a baby girl.

The government's refusal led to her losing her job at Marks and Spencer and the couple, who have been married for seven years and live in Manningtree, had been living in fear of a knock at the door.

But now the Home Office has reversed its decision.

Mrs Smith and her husband Dean Smith told ITV News Anglia she had been granted a 10-year visa which would need to be renewed every two and a half years.

Grace and Dean Smith are expecting a baby girl in the next few weeks Credit: ITV News Anglia.

Mr Smith has recently set up business as a personal trainer.

The Home Office had told the couple they did not meet the financial requirements for a visa - something they had spent £11,000 applying for.