The family of a man who was swept to sea while trying to save a woman and her dog have paid tribute to him.
Peter Jeffery, 68, from Bath, was last seen near the Burnham-on-Sea jetty on Sunday afternoon after trying to rescue a woman and her dog from the sea.
The woman and her dog were found safely on Monday, October 30 but Peter is yet to be found. The HM Coastguard and Avon and Somerset Police search for him has now been suspended.
The family of Mr Jeffery, who was an estate builder for the Duchy of Cornwall, which is owned by Prince William, have paid a touching tribute to their much-loved dad, brother and grandfather. They have described him as “selfless” and have thanked the emergency services for their efforts.
His family said: “It is with a great deal of sadness that Peter Jeffery RVM, our beloved dad, brother and grampy, who after selflessly jumping into the sea at Burnham-on-Sea to help a woman and her dog who were in difficulty, is still missing.
“As with every aspect of his life, he always put others first before himself, and he will be greatly missed by all that knew him.
“The family would like to thank everyone involved in the search; the RNLI, Coastguard, BARB Search & Rescue, Volunteers and Avon & Somerset police.
“We would also like to thank his many friends & work colleagues at the Duchy of Cornwall for their continued support and kindness. We respectfully ask for privacy at this sad time.”
Alastair Martin, secretary and keeper of records at the Duchy of Cornwall, said: “Pete has been a hard-working and loyal colleague of the Duchy since 1981, making him an irreplaceable asset after 42 years of service.
“Frequently described as cheerful and caring, we know he will be deeply missed by colleagues and tenants alike, both of which he helped immeasurably with his positive and bright attitude to always go above and beyond.
“The Duchy will be continuing to support Pete’s family and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.”
