Preston barmaid and mum-of-two Rachel Kay, 37, tragically dies on holiday in Benidorm
A popular Preston barmaid and mum-of-two has tragically died on holiday in Benidorm.
Rachel Kay, 37, was found unresponsive by friends at her accommodation in the Spanish holiday resort on Sunday morning (March 29).
She was a friendly and familiar face to many from her years working at pubs in Preston, most recently at the Bears Paw in Church Street.
Her family and friends have been left devastated by her sudden death, and the community is rallying to support them and raise funds to bring Rachel home.
A GoFundMe has been set up by her sister Denise, with 356 donations raising an incredible £11,000 so far. You can view and donate to Rachel’s GoFundMe here.
Denise said: “I never imagined I would have to write something like this.
“We have suddenly lost my beautiful sister Rachel whilst she was on holiday in Benidorm, and our whole world has been completely shattered.
“She was not only my sister, but a mum, a partner, a daughter, and a twin, and the pain we are all feeling is unbearable.
“Rachel leaves behind her two young children who adored her, her partner, her twin brother who has lost his other half, and our mum and dad who are completely heartbroken. As her sister, I am struggling to find the words to even begin to explain this loss.
“Right now, all we want is to bring her home where she belongs, so she can be surrounded by her family and we can give her the goodbye she truly deserves.
“Sadly, the costs to bring her back to the UK are extremely high. Between repatriation, paperwork and funeral arrangements, it’s more than we could have ever prepared for, especially at a time like this.
“We are asking from the bottom of our hearts for any support you can give. No amount is too small and every single donation will go towards bringing Rachel home and laying her to rest.
“If you are unable to donate, please sharing this would mean everything to us. Thank you for your kindness, love and support during this incredibly difficult time.”
Proud Preston pulls together
Rachel’s dad Mick said the family have been overwhelmed with the outpouring of love and support from the community in Preston.
Fundraising efforts include raffles, car washes and a sponsored walk from Blackpool to Preston. And on May 3, pubs across the city will come together for ‘Rachel’s Day’, which will see customers raise a glass to the beloved 37-year-old.