British mother dies after being caught in devastating Spain wildfire as husband fights for his life

A mum has tragically died after being caught in devastating wildfires in Spain with her partner desperately fighting for his life.

Couple Lisa Fryett and Simon Batchelor were caught up in the deadly Almería blaze in southern Spain that tore through the Los Gallardos neighbourhood on 9 July.

Local authorities previously confirmed that at least 13 people had died in the blaze with several others injured. Lisa and Simon, from Essex, UK, were discovered in a critical condition where they had been staying at the time near Bédar.

Seven British nationals were among those who died when the wildfires swept through the southern region. The fires, one of the most deadliest seen in Spain, came after the country experienced several days of record-setting heat in June, with more than 1,000 excess deaths due to the conditions.

Almeria wildfires tragically claimed lives (Pablo Blazquez Dominguez/Getty Images)

The blaze also claimed the lives of another four Brits who were found dead in a burnt-out car after trying to desperately flee the area.

Simon and Lisa had clung to life after being rescued and pleaded to be saved to return home and be reunited with their children, their family said.

A post written by the family on GoFundMe said the pair were rushed to hospital in a critical condition. "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," they penned.

"Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of the emergency services, that wish became a reality, with all three of their children now by their side in Spain. Lisa’s twin sister has also remained with her, just as she always has throughout their lives."

Family pays heartbreaking tribute to 'beautiful' mum

However it was later confirmed that Lisa, remembered as a 'beautiful' woman, had died of her injuries on 28 July. Her family had flown out to be at her bedside and remained with her until she passed. Simon, meanwhile, is still in hospital in a critical condition.

In a statement her family said: "Our hearts are completely broken, and there are simply no words to describe the pain we are feeling. Lisa fought so incredibly hard, and we are so grateful that her loved ones were able to be by her side, surrounding her with love until the very end.

Tributes have been paid to Lisa (Facebook)

"The love, kindness and generosity we have received have brought us comfort during the most devastating time of our lives. Thanks to your incredible support, our family has been able to remain together in Spain, allowing us to be by Lisa’s side when she needed us most. That is something we will be forever grateful for.

They continued: "Please continue to keep Simon in your thoughts and prayers as he remains in critical condition. Our family is holding onto hope and taking each day as it comes, and your continued love, support and prayers mean the world to us.

"From the bottom of our hearts thank you. Every donation, every share, every message and every prayer has meant more than words can ever express. Your kindness has carried us through the darkest days of our lives, and we will never forget the love and support that has been shown to our family."

Meanwhile Lisa's son Alfie posted a tribute to his mum on Facebook. He wrote: "Words genuinely can’t describe how upset I am right now writing this it’s doesn’t feel real still. The best person ever you was my world I’m so grateful to be able to call you my mum and I will forever love you and I will cherish every memory I have with you."

The wildfires swept through the southern Spain region (JOSE JORDAN / AFP via Getty Images)

Deadly wildfire causes devastation

A spokeswoman for the Guardia Civil in Almeria previously confirmed that along with the deaths of seven British nationals, there were three fatalities from Belgium and one from each of the United States, France and Spain who had died in the wildfires.

The Andalusian government said a 93-year-old British woman was taken to hospital after suffering burns to 20 percent of her body before she tragically died days later. Another four British victims were found after their bodies were found in a burnt-out car. Some British hikers were also found alive but badly burned.

It was reported that two British hikers had also been found alive but badly burned.

A number of people died and others were injured (Chema Artero/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Spain has suffered frequent and severe heatwaves in recent years, with temperatures often exceeding 40C. In June, Spain experienced several days of record-setting heat, with more than 1,000 excess deaths attributed to heat.

A Foreign Office spokesperson said: “Our thoughts are with all those impacted by the devastating wildfires in Spain. We are supporting British nationals affected and their families and remain in close contact with the Spanish authorities.”