Wayne Taylor, from Shildon, lost his life after jumping into the sea to save his children who had got into difficulty during a family day out at Seaton.
Ian Pascoe, 62, from Peterlee, also died when he selflessly entered the choppy water to try and help save the children.
The tragedy – which happened on Sunday, 12 July – has seen an outpouring of grief from the community of Hartlepool, with people hailing both Wayne and Ian as heroes and dozens of flowers and handwritten messages left at the scene of the tragedy in tribute to the pair.
Following the tragedy, Hartlepool Borough Council said it would be carrying out a full review of water safety arrangements at Seaton and across the borough’s coastline.
The local authority has also issued a plea urging everyone to put water safety first.
It particularly urges people not to swim at Steetley Pier, North Sands or Crimdon Beach. The council describes these areas as being “extremely dangerous due to strong currents, deep water and underwater hazards” and states “the sea may look calm but conditions can change quickly.”
Councillor Graham Harrison, leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “Our thoughts remain with the families and friends of Ian Pascoe and Wayne Taylor and everyone affected by the tragic events at Seaton Carew. As a community, we share in their grief and loss. We want people to enjoy Hartlepool’s beautiful coastline this summer but we also want to highlight the importance of water safety as we head into the school holidays.”
He continued: “If you are going to swim, please do so at Seaton Carew when the lifeguards are on duty, listen to their advice, follow the flag system and please never take risks in the water.
Our lifeguards are a friendly and familiar presence on the beach throughout the summer holidays. If you see them, stop for a chat, ask for advice or let them know about any concerns or hazards you’ve spotted. They are there to help everyone enjoy our coastline safely.”
Coun. Harrison added: “By looking out for one another and following basic water safety advice, we can all help to prevent further tragedies.”
Both families have released tributes through Cleveland Police.
The family of Mr Taylor, 38, said: “Firstly, we would like to extend our condolences to the family of Ian Pascoe, who have also suffered a devastating loss. We would like to thank everyone who was at the beach and helped, those who entered the water, and all the emergency services who attended to assist. We are extremely grateful for all the support we have received.
“We are still struggling to come to terms with what has happened and would ask for privacy and time as a family to begin to process these tragic events.”
Mr Pascoe’s family also paid tribute, with “profound sadness”, to “our beloved father, husband, brother and grandad”.
A statement said: “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.”
They added: “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.”
Fundraisers have already raised more than £18,000 to help support the families of both men.
Author: Ian
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