A brave swimmer has helped two children after an accident on a West Mersey beach.

A brave day-tripper brought two children back to the beach after a mother and daughter drowned, eyewitnesses said.

Beverley Smith, 60, said she swam the unnamed rescuer three times into the sea after the accident in West Mercia, near Colchester, on Wednesday night.

Shali Rahman, 41, and Samiha Rahman, 15, were trying to rescue a seven-year-old boy from the water. When they get into trouble and die.

Essex Police said the group were all related to each other from Barking, east London, and the boy remained in hospital fighting for his life.

Recalling the moment the “Good Samaritan” swung into action, Smith said, “They were calling for help and the kids and the adults were there.

“He swam out three times. Two of the kids he brought in weren’t doing well.

“It’s not easy swimming when the tide comes in – you swim with the tide. The water (Wednesday) was particularly cold.”