‘Selfless’ father drowns saving two children from rip current

A FATHER who died saving children caught in a rip current was a “selfless” hero, his grieving family have said.

Hywel Morgan, 47, drowned after jumping in the sea at Poppit Sands near St Dogmaels, Pembrokeshire, on Friday evening.

His family issued this short tribute: “Hyw was a hero. Despite our pain and grief, it gives us comfort that he selflessly tried to prevent others from losing their lives.

“Hyw was a selfless individual who always gave up his time for others. He was a devoted and loving father, loved and respected by all who knew him.”

The RNLI lifeboat was called to reports of an 11-year-old boy on a body board and a child swimmer in difficulty at 7pm. They rescued both but added: “Another casualty was found by the coastguard helicopter and brought back to shore by the Cardigan lifeboat, but sadly died.

“Our thoughts are with the family and friends and the whole community following this tragedy.”

Millie Cook, a witness who was on holiday, said Mr Morgan gave his life to “save others”. She described him as a “credit to his family and friends” and added: “My deepest condolences to them during this time.”

Dyfed-powys Police said the children were taken to hospital to be checked over after the incident, and that Mr Morgan was understood to have helped rescue them because they were caught in a rip current.

Philippa Noble, a Cardigan town councillor, said she had known Mr Morgan since they were children.

She added: “I am not at all surprised that Hyw put himself in danger to help children in trouble and although we as a town are grieving, we are incredibly proud of him.

“I would like to extend my sympathies to his family and friends, especially his son, who Hyw adored.

“The whole town has suffered a great loss of a wonderful character.”

Yvonne O’neill, a former town councillor, added: “Hywel was one-of-akind. A lovely person who had time for everybody.”

The RNLI flew its flag at half mast over its station at Poppit Sands yesterday following Mr Morgan’s death.

‘I am not surprised that Hyw put himself in danger to help children in trouble. We as a town are grieving’