A 14-year-old boy who drowned after getting into difficulties while swimming in the sea has been named by police.
Michael Sheehan, of Northampton, was reported missing off the Blackpool coast at 3.40pm on Wednesday.
Medics struggled to save the teenager's life after he was recovered from the water near Central Pier at about 6.30pm. He was pronounced dead at 7.50pm.
Michael, who was playing with a large inflatable ring, disappeared from sight as he was overcome by a wave.
A search operation was launched after several members of the public called 999 to say two boys were in trouble. The second youngster managed to get back to the shore.
The search involved Blackpool Beach Patrol, Lytham St Annes Coastguard rescue team and all three Blackpool RNLI inshore lifeboats.
A police helicopter and RAF R122 rescue helicopter were also scrambled.
A number of tributes were paid to the youngster on social networking website Facebook.
Abraham Otman wrote: "He was the loveliest if you get to know him. He was intelligent, understanding and respectful. May his soul rest in perfect peace."
Sarah Jayne Sloan posted: "Thinking of all your family and friends at this very sad time. You are friends with my daughter she will miss you greatly, sleep well young man xxx", while Bethany Roche said: "Why did it have to be him, he was such a legend and loved by many rip michael xxx."
