Family Mourns British Couple's Deaths in Spain Wildfires

Pete and Fran Gillam, a British couple from Bédar, Spain, died in devastating wildfires that forced over 1,000 evacuations. Their family confirmed the deaths and mourns the loss amid Spain's severe heatwave and wildfire crisis.

British Couple Dies in Southern Spain Wildfires

Pete and Fran Gillam, residents of Bédar, the village most affected by the wildfires on Thursday, have been confirmed dead by their family. The couple's daughter, Danielle Gillam-Kirton from Sheffield, announced the tragic news on Facebook.

"We are heartbroken to share that we have received confirmation from the police that Mum and Dad did not survive the fire," Gillam-Kirton wrote.

A spokesperson for the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office stated that they are "supporting British nationals affected and their families and remain in close contact with the Spanish authorities." It is understood that the family had been searching for Pete and Fran Gillam since Thursday.

Gillam-Kirton revealed that her mother had sent a text message on the evening of the fire indicating they were evacuating, but since then, the couple had not been heard from. Attempts to contact them via messages and calls were unsuccessful.

"We are still trying to come to terms with this devastating news and ask for some privacy and time as we process everything. Thank you for all your love, support, and prayers over the past few days. They have meant more to us than we can ever express," she added.

More than 1,000 people were evacuated from communities around Los Gallardos and Bédar during the wildfire crisis.

Deadly wildfires affecting Almeria province advance through the hills. — Image caption, More than 1,000 people were evacuated from communities around Los Gallardos and Bédar

The deaths of Pete and Fran Gillam were also confirmed by Bédar Village People, a local community Facebook page, which received hundreds of tributes. One comment read:

"This is beyond sad. We were just chatting the other day. It doesn't seem real."

Another tribute stated:

"I cannot express how sad I am to hear this news. A lovely couple who will be greatly missed."

Wildfire Impact and Casualties

At least 13 people have died in the wildfire in Spain's Almeria province, including five individuals believed by Spanish authorities to be British. The death toll increased on Sunday following the passing of a 93-year-old woman, also believed to be British, who succumbed to her injuries in hospital. Official confirmation of the identities of those killed has not yet been released.

The wildfire, now contained, burned approximately 7,000 hectares (17,300 acres) of land, according to authorities. Spain has experienced frequent and severe heatwaves in recent years, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C.

Additional Information

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office continues to provide support to British nationals affected by the wildfires and their families, maintaining close communication with Spanish officials.

Residents and authorities are working together to recover from one of Spain's deadliest wildfires, which has had a profound impact on the local communities.