Eastbourne grandad dies in tragic sea accident at Pevensey Bay

An Eastbourne grandfather died after a tragic kayaking accident in the sea off Pevensey Bay.
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David Ingrams’ loved ones have shared what happened to raise awareness of sea safety after the devastating incident on August 12.

The 65-year-old painter and decorator of Woburn Way had been enjoying the sunshine during a family day at the beach.

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His son Dave said, “It would have been my grandad John’s 95th birthday so we thought we would have a Guinness for him.

David Ingrams SUS-200821-141506001David Ingrams SUS-200821-141506001
David Ingrams SUS-200821-141506001

“We had the best day in the water with the kids, then I asked my dad to come in the kayak.

“My dad has been a sea man his whole life but he also believed he knew everything.

“So when I asked him to put a life jacket on he refused.”

Wearing wetsuits, the father and son set off kayaking in the sea.

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Dave said, “When we were about 300 meters out he wanted to take the wetsuit off, so I leaned over to undo the back but I didn’t get a chance to get back in my seat before he tried to pull it off.

“That sent us in the water.”

Emergency services rushed to the scene at the beach near Timberlaine Road at about 3pm that day.

Dave said, “Everyone involved did absolutely amazing.

“My sister and a lady called Linda who swam out to the kayak to help bring my dad to shore.

“People on the beach came into the water to help and we managed to get him back on the beach.

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“We gave my dad CPR for what seemed like about an hour before the paramedics arrived to take over.”

Paramedics administered first aid but very sadly, despite their efforts, David was pronounced dead at the scene at about 3.45pm.

Dave said, “We would like to thank everyone involved, even the ladies who helped shield the area to protect other members of the public and the family – especially his grandchildren.”

David leaves behind his wife of 40 years Maxine, children Dave and Kay, and grandchildren Koral, Khye, Kob, Harvey and Hudson.

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• The RNLI advises anyone who finds themselves unexpectedly submerged in cold water not to struggle, but to try to relax and to float on their back

• This allows you to regain control of your breathing and steadies the heart rate

• Wearing a wetsuit is recommended as well as a flotation device such as a life jacket

• If you see someone in trouble at the coast, call 999 and ask for the coastguard

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