Shock as Phil Spencer’s parents die in 'horrific crash'

Property guru and TV presenter Phil Spencer has paid tribute to his parents after they died in a car crash at their home.

Spencer, a regular contributor to Estate Agent Today, described how his parents set off to go out to lunch but their car toppled over a bridge on their farm and fell upside down in a river.

He wrote in an Instagram post: “As a family we are all trying to hold onto the fact Mum and Dad went together and that neither will ever have to mourn the loss of the other one. Which is a blessing in itself.

“Although they were both on extremely good form in the days before (hence the sudden idea to go out to lunch), Mums Parkinson's and Dads dementia had been worsening and the long term future was set to be a challenge.

“So much so that Mum said to me only a week ago that she had resigned to thinking ‘now it looks like we will probably go together.’ And so they did.

“That was what God had planned for them - and it was a good plan.’

Spencer said the car, going very slowly, toppled over a bridge on the farm drive, upside down into the river. 

He added: “There were no physical injuries and I very much doubt they would have even fought it - they would have held hands under the water and quietly slipped away.

“Their carer was in the car and managed to climb out of a back window so the alarm was raised quite quickly.

“As many farmers do - my brother had a penknife and so was able to cut the seat belts - he pulled them out of the river but they never regained consciousness.

“Although desperately sad and shocked beyond all belief - all family are clear that if there can ever be such a thing as having a "good end" - this was it.

“It feels horrendous right now, but after almost 60 years of marriage - to die together on the farm they so loved will, I know, be a comfort in the future.

“Mum Dad are together which is precisely where they would have wanted to be.”

His Location Location Location co-host Kirstie Allsop led tributes.

She said: “Such a brave and loving statement and so typical of you & your lovely family. So many people have you all in their thoughts and prayers.”

Angels Media sends its condolences to Phil Spencer. May their memory be a blessing.