Former agent asks people to ‘raise a glass’ on Sousse attack anniversary

Former travel agent Suzy Richards, who lost three members of her family in the Sousse terror attack two years ago, has asked people to ‘raise a glass, light a candle for all those that never came home’.

The request was made today on the website of Smile for Joel, the charity she and her surviving son, Owen, set up following the attack.

Suzy, from Wednesbury in the Midlands, lost her son Joel, dad Pat and brother Ade during the attack on June 26 2015, when 38 holidaymakers – 30 of whom were British citizens – were killed when a lone gunman opened fire on the beach in Sousse.

The message on the charity’s website said: "Two years ago today the world changed for all of us, going on holiday, drinking with friends, going to a concert or just taking a stroll across a bridge were all normal safe things to do.

"Today we remember Tunisia. We remember the 38 innocent holidaymakers cruelly murdered and the many injured.

"Joel, Ade and Pat were three of the most genuine, loyal and respected guys around.

"Those that knew them personally feel honoured to have shared their lives, honoured to have been blessed to have those special memories that can never be taken and will never be forgotten.

"At 12 o’clock, Ade’s workplace (Sandwell Council) are holding a minute’s silence to remember and never forget. In your own way today please remember, raise a glass, light a candle for all those that never came home."

In a statement issued by law company Irwin Mitchell, Suzy added: "After losing three very precious family members during the Tunisian terror attack our supportive loyal and loving family will never be the same. We are shattered, broken and every day is a colossal struggle not having them here with us.

"In the midst of this heartache I am determined to stand strong for my remaining family, especially my remaining son Owen."

An inquest into the deaths of 30 British citizens concluded earlier this year after hearing about issues with security at the hotel, the police response and criticism of travel advice prior to families heading out on holiday. 

His Honour Judge Loraine-Smith has since taken further submissions from specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell representing 22 families who lost loved ones as well as tour operator TUI with which they booked their holidays and the Government.

He is expected to publish his report into possible action to learn lessons from the tragedy in the coming months. A criminal investigation in Tunisia is also ongoing with a hearing scheduled for October.

Irwin Mitchell represents the families of 22 people who were killed in the attack as well as many others who suffered injuries including gunshot wounds and shrapnel damage from exploded grenades.

They are bringing civil claims for damages against TUI, alleging that security at the hotel was inadequate and that guests were not given sufficient warning of the risk that a terrorist attack might occur.

Irwin Mitchell personal injury lawyer Kylie Hutchison said: "Our client have shown tremendous courage over the past two years as they have sought to find out exactly what happened on that fateful day.

"The seven-week inquest was particularly difficult, sitting through hours of sensitive and often shocking evidence. They now await the Coroner’s report and hope that recommendations will be made to reduce the risk of similar incidents in the future."