Funeral for couple who died in Spain floods

Don and Terri Turner were found dead after flooding hit Valencia

A funeral is due to take place for a couple from Staffordshire, who died during flash flooding in Spain.

Don Turner, 78, and his wife, Terri, 74, were found dead in their car after heavy downpours struck Valencia in late October.

The couple's daughter, Ruth O'Loughlin, from Burntwood, told BBC Radio WM she could not put into words how she was feeling.

"Speaking to my sister every day, we feel like my parents are still alive in Valencia, because I think the truth is too shocking to believe," she said.

"To lose two parents, in the way that we've lost them, is devastating."

Originally from Burntwood, the retired couple moved to Spain about 10 years ago where they became volunteers at a dog rescue centre.

Ms O’Loughlin and her sister Renee Turner have since raised more than £4,600 for the charity in their memory.

Renee Turner, left, and Ruth O'Loughlin have raised more than £4,600 for the dog rescue charity where their parents volunteered

Ms O’Loughlin said their parents’ car was found on its side in a ravine and was full of mud from the deluge.

It is Spain's worst flooding disaster in generations, in which more than 200 people died.

The sisters placed flowers in the car on a visit to Valencia, and said it had been a way for them to feel close to their parents.

The Turners had been married for 52 years, and were like "chalk and cheese" Ms O’Loughlin said.

"Mum was really sensible, serious. Dad was really silly and funny. But it just worked - they were the kindest, most thoughtful people you could ever wish to meet," she said.

Ms O’Loughlin said she hoped the crematorium would be packed, as her parents were loved by many people.

"I don't want it to be a dark, sombre day. I want to celebrate the life of two absolutely amazing people,” she added.