John Hastry
Identity
John Hastry is a Belgium-based friend of David Irving who owns a recording studio and an apartment in Knokke, Belgium. He provided significant support to DI during a difficult period in 2007.
Personal Details
- Age: 79 years old in 2007
- Family: Son John and grandson also named John
- Residence: Belgium (Brussels area)
- Business: Recording studio complex with "glittering and impressive" facilities behind an unprepossessing facade
Property in Knokke
John Hastry owns an apartment in Knokke, a Belgian seaside resort, which he generously offered to David Irving for extended use:
- Size: Approximately 100 square meters
- Location: Seaside location with iodine-rich air
- Amenities: Large space but lacking some basic facilities (no washing machine, no lavatory seat initially, VHS not working)
Key Support in 2007
Accommodation Offer (Spring 2007)
John Hastry offered his Knokke apartment to DI for the entire month of June 2007, providing crucial accommodation during DI's housing crisis.
Arrangement details (2007-05-11):
- DI booked Eurostar tickets for June 1-30, 2007
- John would meet him at Brussels station
- Free accommodation for the month
- Writing retreat atmosphere
DI's gratitude:
"I am really looking forward to writing in the surroundings of your apartment, John, and I am sure we will spend a lot more time together than usual."
June 2007 Stay
The month-long stay in Knokke proved beneficial despite some practical challenges:
- Arrival: June 1, 2007 - collected by John at Brussels station
- Studio visit: Impressive recording facility tour
- Health benefits: John believed the iodine air would benefit DI's health
- Writing environment: Large space suitable for concentrated work
Practical Support
- Provided meal recommendations and local guidance
- Arranged for DI to purchase Telenet internet access
- Helped navigate Belgian services and amenities
- Offered ongoing friendship and support
Business Background
John Hastry operates a sophisticated recording studio:
- Complex described as "glittering and impressive"
- Professional recording facilities
- Contrasts between industrial exterior and high-quality interior equipment
- Family business involving his son and grandson
Relationship with David Irving
- Long-standing friendship predating 2007
- Generous with resources and time
- Understanding of DI's difficult circumstances post-prison
- Interested in DI's writing projects and career
Political Views
John Hastry demonstrated awareness of British political issues, including:
- Commentary on Gordon Brown's facial tics and political behavior
- Understanding of British political dynamics
- Critical perspective on New Labour policies
Cross-References
Notable Quotes
On Gordon Brown's tics (2007-06-01):
"He seems to be getting it under control," says John, discussing Brown's chin-swallowing tic.
DI's assessment of John:
"an amazing man for 79, and my leg hurts more" (noting John's physical vitality during walks)
On accommodation generosity:
"he is letting me use it free for a month, and I can't complain"
Notes
John Hastry represents the kind of loyal, practical friendship that provided crucial support during David Irving's difficult reconstruction period in 2007. His generosity with both accommodation and time enabled DI to maintain writing productivity during a chaotic year. The Knokke arrangement particularly demonstrates how personal relationships helped bridge DI's housing and financial crises.