Memorial fund for murdered honeymoon couple

The families of a British couple murdered on the final day of their honeymoon in the Caribbean have launched a memorial fund in their name.

Trainee physiotherapist Ben Mullany and his new bride Catherine, a qualified doctor, were shot at a luxury hotel on the island on Antigua in July.

Mrs Mullany died instantly and her husband died from a severe head injury days after what is believed to have been a "botched robbery".

A public service for the newlyweds, from Rhos, near Swansea, is being held at Llandaff Cathedral, Cardiff, at midday next Wednesday.

Members of the grieving families have spoken publicly for the first time since the tragic double shooting.

They said they had set up The Mullany Fund to support prospective medical students and physiotherapists and keep the couple's dreams alive.

Ben's brother, Adam Mullany, 23, speaking on behalf of the families, said: "Cath and Ben dreamt of a married life caring for others in the local community. Cath as a doctor and Ben as a physiotherapist.

"Cath and Ben's dreams were cut short by their murder on the last day of their honeymoon in Antigua in 2008.

"The Mullany Fund has been launched by the family and friends of Cath and Ben to support UK students wishing to study medicine or physiotherapy.

"As a family, we have lost two beloved members. The Mullany Fund will help us to preserve their memories and ensure that their dreams live on.

"As a country, we have lost a well-respected doctor and a promising young physiotherapist. Whilst we will never replace Cath and Ben, this fund will help others to fill their shoes and continue the work that they had started."

The families' joint statement also drew attention to a Mullany Fund website - www.themullanyfund.org.

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