Local families in Australia

David & Sandra Byrd & family say: "We are writing to let the good people of Audlem know that we are OK following the recent tragic bushfires. A number of people have emailed and telephoned us over the last few days and we have been grateful for the concern shown.

"We moved to Victoria in November 2007, David having been born and bred at Buerton. Saturday's fires came within half an hour away but we had a large fire on a neighbouring property the previous week. We are devastated to see the tragedy unfolding. If anyone can help, please look up www.redcross.org.au. Thanks again for the concern shown to us."

Andrew and Lynn Smith from Audlem Post Office have asked Audlem Online to say that they have heard from brother Jonty Smith, who lives in Victoria. The fires are about 30 minutes away, and while the temperatures have fallen in the past day or two, they have their car packed ready to escape if the flames get too close. They, like the Byrd family above, have received messages of concern from Audlem and thank everyone for thinking of them at this very difficult time.

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