Widow in race to raise cash after fire tragedy
A WIDOW who lost her husband and two young children in a house fire 12 years ago is taking part in a famous road race – to thank the charity that supported her through her darkest hours.
Eirlys Greenough, originally from Merthyr Tydfil, was living with her family at an RAF base in Cyprus in March 2007 and was out when the devastating fire started.
Her husband Andy, from Abertillery, was at home with their children Evan, five, and Nia, two, at the time.
One of Eirlys’ friends had heard about a fire on their street at RAF Akrotiri and they rushed home.
Eirlys told us: “It was St Patrick’s Day and Wales were playing England so Andy was sending me regular updates.
“One of the girls’ husbands was a fireman and messaged her about a fire and it was on the street we were staying at.
“I phoned my husband, phoned the kids but had no response and I started worrying.
“We were driven back to the base and the house was engulfed in flames and my family was inside. The roof had come down and I just feared the worst from then.
“Later on, we found out it was an electrical fire.”
Speaking at the time of the inquest 10 years ago, Eirlys described the impact the tragedy had on her life.
She had been married to Cpl Greenough for nine years before the fatal fire.
She said: “Every day was so busy and noisy, filled with love and laughter. I have so many precious memories of our time together.
“Andy – my husband, best friend, proud father of our two beautiful children. Evan – our son, a real character who loved school and playing superheroes with his many friends. Nia – our daughter was such a sweet and funny girl who loved to sing and dance.
“My life is richer for having known them but will never be the same again.”
Now, the 47-year-old says she had the support of family and friends but also thanks the RAF Benevolent Fund for its support after the tragedy.
She said: “They were on hand straight away and flew mine and my husband’s parents out to Cyprus. They helped me with all the funeral costs and also gave me a grant which was needed at the time.
“I did not expect that. I remember feeling overwhelmed by getting it. There was no fuss, they were just there.
“It’s a brilliant charity and I have always tried to raise money for it and would urge others to donate if they can.”
As a result, she is taking part in the Beaujolais Run, a five-day driving challenge which takes fundraisers through the vineyards of France and this year is themed to mark the 75th anniversary of the Great Escape and commemorate the 76 brave men who made a bid for freedom during World War II.
Eirlys, a former Pen y dre pupil who now lives in Cheltenham, will be navigating while fellow RAF widow Beth Wright will be driving.
Rowena Finch, RAF Benevolent Fund corporate partnerships manager, said: “Eirlys is exactly the reason the fund exists, to stand side-by-side with the RAF Family in their darkest hour.
“She has been amazing in her efforts to give something back to the charity.
“It is thanks to events like the Beaujolais Run that we are able to offer this assistance to all members of the RAF Family, retired and serving personnel and their dependants. This is especially significant in 2019 as the fund marks its centenary with a campaign to double the number of people it supports.”
This isn’t the only fundraising Eirlys has done for the charity. In April, she raised more than £4,500 by climbing three volcanoes in Italy, ascending more than 3,400m in just five days.
And by last night, £1,200 had been raised for the latest challenge.
To sponsor Beth and Eirlys, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/Team/Tomandharrygoonabeaujolaisrun