Pair flee as fire destroys home (From Keighley News)

Pair flee as fire destroys home

9:10am Thursday 6th September 2012 in Keighley By Alistair Shand

A couple from the Keighley area fled for their lives as fire destroyed their dream home in Spain’s Costa del Sol.

Roger and Nancy Holdsworth were helpless as the wildfire engulfed their £300,000 villa in La Mairena.

They were among hundreds of British ex-pats and tourists who had to run for safety as flames ripped through forests near Marbella and Malaga.

The fires began on Thursday night and raged for more than two days, fanned by strong winds.

More than 400 firefighters tackled the inferno, aided by helicopters and planes.

Residents and tourists were ushered into temporary shelters away from the worst-hit areas.

Dentist Roger, 58, said they were devastated to lose their villa, but thankful to have escaped.

“It went from paradise to hell in just ten minutes,” he said. “The speed with which the fire took hold was frightening.

“There were flames and smoke billowing from the roof and the heat was spectacular.

“I was left coughing and spluttering from the smoke, but we are happy to have got out alive.

“But the impact emotionally, practically and financially is going to be terrible.”

Friends and colleagues of the couple said this week they were shocked at the news.

Mother-of-three Nancy, an former teacher, is a former Keighley town councillor and served as mayor in 2003-04.

She is a member of the town’s Rotary club.