“We will miss him always”: Tributes to hero who died after entering sea to save children
The family of a man who lost his life when he entered the sea to help children in difficulty at Seaton Carew beach said he will “forever remain” in their hearts.
Ian Pascoe, 62, from the Peterlee area of Durham, was a much-loved dad, husband, brother and grandad, his family said.
He died after entering the water at the County Durham beach on Sunday July 12.
His family said on Thursday: "It is with profound sadness that we confirm the death of our beloved father, husband, brother and grandad, Ian.
“As a family, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to the police, ambulance service, Coastguard and RNLI for their efforts, professionalism and compassion throughout this incredibly difficult time. We will always be grateful to everyone involved.
“We have been truly humbled by the overwhelming response from members of the public, so many of whom have clearly been touched and moved by this tragedy. The messages of sympathy, kindness and support have meant more to our family than we can adequately put into words.
“Ian will forever remain in our hearts. He was deeply loved, and the loss we feel is immeasurable.
“We will miss him always and carry his memory with us for the rest of our lives.
“We respectfully ask for privacy as our family grieves and comes to terms with our loss."