Heroic dad loses his life rescuing family’s dog from the sea in Kent

His family have said they are 'utterly devastated'

A heroic dad died rescuing his family's pet dog from the sea. The man, who has not been named, was described as the "best dad ever" by grieving relative following his tragic sacrifice. Lifeboat crews were called to Ramsgate seafront in Kent last Thursday [March 31] after the man had entered the water. Emergency services scrambled to the town's esplanade with lifeboat crews reaching the man, pulling him out of the water and passing him into the care of paramedics. He was treated at the scene before being rushed to hospital, but tragically died. His partner posted on Facebook: "Myself and our two children are utterly devastated. "Don't know how we will cope. He died saving our dog. He is our hero." She later described him as "the best dad ever" to their son and daughter and added: "This man has forever, and forever will be, the love of my life." A South East Coast Ambulance service spokesperson said: "We were called at approximately 11.40am on Thursday March 31 to the Esplanade, Ramsgate, to reports of a man having been pulled from the sea. "Ambulance crews attended alongside fellow emergency services. "The man was given emergency treatment at the scene before being taken to hospital in a life-threatening condition. He sadly died at hospital." The weekend following the tragic death the Ramsgate RNLI Volunteer Water Safety Team was deployed to Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Dumpton Gap to raise awareness of coastal dog safety. A spokesperson said: "It was great to see so many dog owners with their doggies making the most of the lovely spring day at low tide. "The majority of people spoken with were aware of advice not to enter the water if their dog wouldn't leave the water and to call the Coastguard via '999'. "In total 50 people were spoken with and our team would like to thank everyone for their time in chatting to us." Related links:

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