TRAGIC LOSS

Hero, 22, dies after jumping into sea to save stranger who he spotted getting into difficulty off Blackpool pier

A MAN has died after jumping into the sea to save a stranger he spotted getting into difficulty in the water.

Alex Gibson, 22, leapt off a pier in Blackpool on Friday morning.

He spotted another man in trouble in the water - but Alex ended up getting into difficulty in the waves himself around 4.20am.

Emergency services including the RNLI and a Coastguard helicopter rushed to help him.

He reportedly managed to "crawl out" of the sea and was taken to hospital but he couldn't be saved.

The fish and chip shop Alex worked for described him as a "truly amazing young man".

The company said: "All his friends would agree that he was intelligent, hardworking, pleasant, caring, and literally wouldn’t hurt a fly.

"He is a true hero, drowned sacrificing his life to help another.

"He was loved by all his work colleagues, and we miss him terribly.

"Tragically taken at 22. My heart goes out to all his family."

Blackpool pub owner Hamish Howitt has started a page to raise money for Alex's family.

Mr Howitt wrote: "The beautiful Alex Gibson, 22, a true hero sacrificed his life last night in Blackpool, rescuing a boy from the sea.

"A beautiful, caring, loving, son, brother and friend to all who knew him.

"Please help by donating for a beautiful send off for a true hero.

"First £500 will be donated by our family. God bless to all."

A public memorial has been organised for August 7 at North Pier.

Organiser Siobhan Rosie said Alex was the "kindest, bravest soul there ever was".

She added: "He was loved and will continue to be loved by everyone.

Most read in News