Tributes have been paid to a young Pembroke Dock pupil who tragically lost his life after an incident at Angle Beach on Friday (July 1).

Emergency services were called to the scene, after eleven-year-old Zac Thompson, was swept into the sea by a freak wave along with his elder brother and a friend.

With the others managing to swim to safety, Zac had got into difficulty, and following rescue attempts by members of the public, he was carried to land but was unconscious.

After the emergency services arrived and stabilised him, Zac was flown to Heath Hospital in Cardiff via Wales Air Ambulance, but despite the best efforts of the medical team, he sadly passed away on Saturday.

A post from Pembroke Dock Community School where Zac attended, paid tribute to the youngster: “Zac was a popular and much-loved character in Year 6 at Pembroke Dock Community School. He excelled academically, in particular in maths, who loved to solve complex mental maths challenges (keeping staff on their toes). He was also a talented sportsman.

“Zac recently played exceptionally well in cricket, helping the school get through to the area finals, which are due to be played this week. He had a cheeky smile, was funny and was looking forward to his final weeks in primary school, the summer holidays and all the opportunities that were open to him as he moved on to secondary school. Zac had a huge zest for life! One sweet memory of him was when he was in Year 3, and it was Superhero Day. Zac came to school dressed as his favourite superhero – his mum. Zac said: ‘Not all superheroes wear capes!’

“This is a dreadfully sad time for his family, and our love, thoughts and prayers are with both his family and his wide circle of friends, who will miss his big character and mischievous nature.

“There will be many staff on hand to support the learners on Monday and beyond this week. We are heartbroken, Zac was a lovely young man, a valued pupil and will be greatly missed!” they added.

A fundraiser that has been set up to support Zac’s family (at: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/katie-jones-917) - has already raised over £11,000.