UK couple in critical condition after Spain wildfires made harrowing plea to rescuers

A British couple have been left seriously injured after being caught in deadly wildfires in Spain. Simon Batchelor and Lisa Fryett, from Canvey in Essex, were staying near Bédar and Los Gallardos in southern Spain when the horror blaze broke out. After being rescued by emergency crews, they were taken to hospital, where they remain in a critical condition. Their three children are now by their side in Spain.

A fundraising page has been set up to cover the costs of the family members’ emergency travel, accommodation, food, and other expenses. A message published on the family’s Go Fund Me page revealed the desperate plea Simon and Lisa made to rescuers.

The fundraiser page read: “When they were found, despite their devastating injuries, Simon and Lisa pleaded with their rescuers to save them because they wanted to see their children again. Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the emergency services, that wish has now become a reality, with all three of their children by their side in Spain. Lisa’s twin sister has also remained by her side, just as she always has throughout their lives.

“As Simon and Lisa continue to receive lifesaving treatment, the costs of emergency travel, accommodation, food, transport and other unexpected expenses are mounting every day.

“We are raising funds to help ease the financial burden on our family so they can focus on what truly matters being there for Simon and Lisa during this unimaginably difficult time.”

So far, the family raised £47,204. The family also expressed their gratitude to the local community and the rescuers and added: “We also want to thank all of the emergency services involved, especially the Guardia Civil officers, whose courage and determination against all odds helped fulfil Simon and Lisa’s wish to be reunited with their children.”

Thirteen people have died in the tragedy that devastated the Almeria area in southern Spain, burning more than 17,300 acres.

Five of the fatalities identified, all adults, are from the UK, while three are from Belgium, one from France and one is a Spanish citizen.

Ten people remain missing, according to the Spanish forensics services data unit.