British Couple Who Died in Spanish Floods Remembered for ‘Incredible’ Love of Animals

The vice president of a dog rescue charity has stated that a British couple, who passed away during recent flooding in Spain, possessed an “incredible” affection for animals and played a significant role in the organization. Don Turner, aged 78, and his 74-year-old wife, Terri, were discovered deceased on Saturday. They had been reported missing from their residence close to Pedralba following flash floods in Valencia. The retired couple, originally from Burntwood, Staffordshire, relocated to Spain approximately a decade ago, subsequently volunteering with the Naturaleza y Animales charity. Lin McNally, the charity’s vice president, conveyed to BBC Radio WM: “It’s absolutely heartbreaking, they were so loved over here and they had so many good friends.“We just can’t believe it. They were a big part of Naturaleza y Animales – they volunteered and they just loved to go up there [to the shelter]. The dogs loved them.” Ms. McNally recounted instances of walking through the shelter with Mrs. Turner, who frequently expressed to Ms. McNally her desire to bring all the dogs home if it were possible. Ms. McNally mentioned that the charity intends to plant a tree at the location in their honor. She further stated, “It was a huge part of their lives. Their love for animals was incredible.” The flooding, characterized as the most severe in Spain for generations, commenced last Tuesday following an intense period of heavy rainfall in the region. To date, the floods have resulted in over 200 fatalities, with rescue teams continuing their efforts to locate survivors. Ruth O’Loughlin and Renee Turner, the daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Turner, lost communication with their parents after a conversation with their father last Monday. Ms. O’Loughlin stated that friends in Spain informed them that their parents’ remains were discovered in a vehicle on Saturday. Both she and Ms. Turner informed the BBC of their intention to “do what’s right by them” by organizing an auction, with all funds raised benefiting Naturaleza y Animales. Ms. Turner commented, “It made my parents very happy when they were there.” When questioned about her reaction to the daughters’ commitment, Ms. McNally responded that she was “brought to tears” upon learning of it. She further remarked, “It would be such a wonderful thing to do and their parents would be so proud and so happy about that gesture on their behalf.” Ms. O’Loughlin mentioned that she and her sister had been in communication with the British Consulate and intended to travel to Valencia once it was deemed safe. A representative for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office confirmed that personnel were assisting the family and maintaining communication with local authorities.