David Hasselhoff's wife pays tribute to former colleagues at Merthyr Tydfil Debenhams store after closure announced
The wife of Hollywood star David Hasselhoff has paid tribute to her former Debenhams colleagues - as shop bosses announced her old store is shutting for good.
Hayley Roberts Hasselhoff, 40, was working on the make-up counter of the store when she met her future husband on a night out.
Hayley continued working in the store whilst dating the Baywatch actor. She then moved to Los Angeles with David to start their new life together.
The Debenhams store in Merthyr Tydfil is being permanently closed, but Hayley still has fond memories of her coworkers who she says were 'like family' to her.
Hayley, from Glynneath, who worked on the make-up counter at Debenham's, met the Hoff when she asked for his autograph when he was in Cardiff for Britain's Got Talent in 2011.
He asked her for a date and whisked her away for four days in the Swiss Alps - and the pair have been together ever since. They were married at a ceremony in Italy in 2018.
Bosses at the high-street chain in Merthyr Tydfil say the store will permanently close as landlord terms could not be agreed.
A Debenhams spokesman said: "Debenhams can confirm that its store in Merthyr Tydfil will not be reopening as we were unable to agree appropriate terms with the landlord of the building.
"This is in no way a reflection on the commitment and professionalism of our colleagues which has been exemplary, and we will work with them to support them through this process."
A Welsh Government spokesman said the Merthyr Tydfil Debenhams store was eligible for a rates relief scheme.
Gerald Jones MP for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney said the closure was a “huge blow.”
He said: “This is a huge blow for Merthyr Tydfil, which comes at what is already a hugely difficult time for retail businesses everywhere.
“Debenhams is a popular store at the Cyfarthfa Retail Park, and I am deeply disappointed with their decision to close.
“I am encouraging any constituents, particularly staff who are affected by the store’s decision to contact my office with any concerns they may have, or if there’s anything they feel I can help with.”