The family of the Shropshire father and son who died in the sea off Spain have spoken of the massive support they received after the tragedy.

Symon Howlett, 32, and his son Jay, five, from Market Drayton, died in waters around Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava on November 21. Mr Howlett and his wife Deborah had been on the beach with Jay and their other son Thomas, nine, when a freak wave swept the boys into the water.

After the tragedy, both Mrs Howlett and Thomas were looked after by staff at the Tossa Beach Hotel where they were staying.

A collection was even started by staff and guests which raised about £300 for the family.

The family have today spoken for the first time about the tremendous support they received both in Spain and on returning home to Market Drayton over the weekend.

A statement from the family said: “Since the tragedy, the support of so many people back in the United Kingdom has been tremendous.

“Debbie, Thomas and the family of Symon and Jay would like to record their sincere thanks to the staff at the Hotel Tossa Beach for the total care of the family following the tragedy.

“To Mark Smithson at the British Embassy in Barcelona for protecting the family from public glare and making numerous arrangements for their return to the United Kingdom, thanks are also due to Euro Assistance Insurance Company who were extremely helpful in every aspect, together with others far too numerous to mention.”

After news of the tragedy spread to Shropshire, the community of Market Drayton was one in mourning, with people offering messages of support and some laying flowers outside the family home.

Prayers were said at Market Drayton Infants School, where Jay was a pupil, and a minute’s silence was held before the town’s Christmas lights were switched on.

No date has yet been set for the funeral of Mr Howlett and his son.