A “cheeky and funny” schoolboy has been killed after being hit by a freak wave as he played on a beach with his brother and cousin.
Zak Thompson, 11, was carried into the sea after finishing school last week.
His two family members managed to swim to safety but Zak went under the water.
A member of the public brought him to the shoreline where emergency services tried to help him.
Zak was rushed by air ambulance to the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff but died the next day.
His parents, Carli and Phil Thompson, are being comforted by family after the tragedy in Angle, Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Zak was a pupil at Pembroke Dock Community School where fellow classmates in Year 6 were described as "heartbroken.”
In a statement the school said: “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’.
“He excelled academically, in particular in maths, and loved to solve complex mental maths challenges (keeping staff on their toes).
"Zac was also a talented sportsman who played exceptionally well at cricket and helped 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,” continued the statement from Pembroke Dock Community School.
The statement concludes: "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.
“Zac was a lovely young man, a valued pupil and will be greatly missed.”
An inquest is expected to be opened later.
A Just Giving page was set up in the wake of the tragedy to support the family and has already raised more than £11,000.
Creator Katie Jones said: “As a community we are shocked and saddened to learn of the sudden tragic passing of 11 year old Zac Thompson yesterday.
“Zac was a beautiful, cheeky ,sports mad , incredible kid whose eyes and smile would light up any room.
“Everyone has a photo or a story to tell of this darling boy, as a community I know each and every one of you wants to offer support to Carli Phil Tyler and his family.
“Please support this cause to help them with anything they need during this horrendous time.
“Rest in peace my little mate I’ll never ever forget you.”
