British couple killed in Spanish wildfire pictured as devastated daughter pays tribute | World | News
The names of a British couple who died in devastating fires in southern Spain have been revealed for the first time and their heartbroken daughter has been photographed paying tribute to them. Pete and Fran Gillam were among the 13 victims of the fire that ravaged Almeria.
The fierce fire advanced towards their home in Bedar, Almeria province. The couple disappeared on Thursday and their last communication was a text message to their daughter Danielle Gillam-Kirton at around 7pm. Fran warned her daughter that she and her husband would be evacuated, but their communication suddenly stopped and other calls went unanswered.
Police later confirmed the couple died in the horrific fire.
Daughters Danielle Gillam-Kirton and Natalie Gillam Lindsay have now posted a heartbreaking tribute on Facebook.
“Natalie Gillam Lindsay and I are deeply saddened to share that we have received confirmation from the police that my parents did not survive the fire,” she wrote.
“We are still trying to come to terms with this devastating news and ask for some privacy and time while we process everything.
“Thank you for all your love, support and prayers over the last few days. They have meant more to us than we can ever express.
“We will share more details when available.”
The forest fires that ravaged the southeast of Spain were caused by heat waves reaching 40 degrees. Extreme weather conditions, combined with dry ground and strong winds, quickly spread flames throughout Los Gallardos.
Spanish authorities believe the victims were all foreign tourists who were thought to have abandoned their vehicles and attempted to escape on foot after abandoning rugged terrain.
Pete and Fran Gillam are the first victims identified. Police also suspect the murder of a British woman and her Spanish husband, as well as US, French and Belgian citizens.
Four bodies recovered from a burnt car are believed to be British victims. News broke on Sunday that two British hikers were found alive but badly burned.
