Charlie flown home to Welshpool

The body of the Welshpool man killed in a hit-and-run incident in the holiday resort of Paphos on Cyprus last Sunday was flown home in the early hours of this morning.

The family of Charlie Birch were at Manchester Airport this morning and accompanied undertakers on a heart-breaking trip in returning the 39 year old to Welshpool, where discussions are taking place about funeral arrangements.

Family members, including 32-year-old William Pritchard, who survived the incident, had been on holiday on the island and returned to Welshpool last Tuesday.

A 35-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman were arrested facing charges of pre-meditated murder and attempted murder. It is understood the woman has since been released with the man due to appear in court on Monday.

The arrests were made after a car was reported to have crashed into Avios Georghios Harbour where a woman had to be rescued and a man swam away.

The family today paid tribute to those who had supported them after the Sunday morning incident. Adie Bowen, partner of Mr Birch’s sister Belinda, flew out to Cyprus and said the family had received remarkable support.

“The family travelled with Jet2 and the company has responded magnificently alongside the British Consulate in providing constant support,” he said.

“Nothing has been too much trouble and Jet2 provided round-the-clock support. There was also amazing support from local residents with floral tributes appearing at the scene of the incident.”

Mr Bowen also thanked friends who have “bombarded” the family with messages of support. “The reaction has been incredible and has provided great comfort to the family,” he said.

“Now that Charlie is back home the grieving process can begin and we will release news of funeral arrangements as soon as they are confirmed.”