Shoreham couple die in Spanish crash

Brian Hitchen, 77, and his wife Nelli were hit by a car when crossing a road in Altea, on the east coast of Spain near Alicante.

Mrs Hitchen died at the scene and Mr Hitchen was taken to hospital but died later from his injuries

Mr Hitchen was the editor of the Daily Star from 1987 to 1994 and sister publication the Sunday Express in 1995.

The couple lived in Shoreham and were involved within the community.

As a sailing enthusiast, Mr Hitchen was former committee member of Sussex Yacht Club, Shoreham and a supporter of the Shoreham RNLI.

A spokeswoman for Northern and Shell, the Daily Express and Daily Star’s parent company, said: “We can confirm the sad news that Brian Hitchen, former editor of the Daily Star and the Sunday Express, and his wife, Nelli, have died after being been involved in a serious road accident in Spain.

“Brian was taken to a hospital in a very grave condition and doctors were not able to save him.

“Nelli very sadly died at the scene. Our thoughts are with their family at this time.”

Tim Loughton MP for East Worthing and Shoreham commented on Twitter: ‏”Shocked by news about tragic death of Shoreham residents and former Fleet Street giant Brian Hitchen CBE and wife Nelli in Spain.”

For the full tribute see next week’s Shoreham Herald.