A FATHER-OF-THREE drowned off the coast of Majorca while trying to save his seven-year-old son, who was also killed.
George Selby died after leaping in to the stormy water – despite not being able to swim – to save his son Louis who had been dragged in by a large wave.
The 28-year-old shop manager, of Hartland Road, Hornchurch, who had been married to Abigail for a year, has been described by his mother as heroic.
In a statement released through the Foreign Office, Christine Selby said: "My son George Selby died trying to save his son Louis Selby.
"George was passionate about his wife Abigail and their three sons.
"This tragedy that has befallen this family has devastated the lives of his wife, sons, and mother. George, Louis and their family were – and still are – loved by all that knew them.
"Please allow us to grieve for our devastating loss of a truly heroic husband, father, son, brother. And Louis our little bear."
The tragedy unfolded on Saturday, the first full day of the family's holiday in a small bay near the resort of Calas de Mallorca, in the south east of the island.
Lifeguards tried to save the pair as the rest of the family, including George's 31-year-old wife, looked on helplessly.
George's sister, Charlotte Selby, from Chadwell Heath, wrote on a Facebook tribute page set up in their memory: "George and Louis I love you both so much xxxx and miss u xxxx.
"My brother was one of the most amazing men I have ever met and my nephew xxxxx. He was a great man and always will be and they will never be forgotten xxxxxx rip xxxx."
Danielle Marie Sands wrote: "I keep imagining George and that voice of his and all the late nights and jokes we used to have at yours every night when were younger.
"Got a lot of good memories that will never be forgotten!!!!! Keep strong for your Mum Char and give my Love to your family for me again."
Steve Waters wrote: "What a tragic loss, George was a good man and loved his family. God bless them both my thoughts go out to their family. Such a tragedy."
Reports suggest that George was taking photographs of his son when a giant wave washed him off a stone stairway cut into rocks.
