A Muslim mother and her teenage daughter died after trying to rescue a seven-year-old boy who got into difficulty in the sea at an Essex beach, as their family paid tribute to the local people who risked their own lives to help.

Shelina Rahman, a 42-year-old British-Bangladeshi teacher, and her 15-year-old daughter Sameeha died after several people got into difficulty at West Mersea beach.

The seven-year-old boy they are believed to have been trying to rescue, Musa Ahmed, remains on life support in a London hospital.

Speaking after the funeral at East London Mosque, Shelina’s husband, Dr Mansur Rahman, told reporters of his heartbreak.

He was in London when the tragedy unfolded and learned what had happened from a friend.

Dr Rahman praised the emergency services, hospital staff and the beachgoers.

“The Colchester Hospital staff, they showed us respectful care. They treated us very nicely and beautifully. I really appreciate it,” he said.

“I also appreciate the fire brigade, the local Essex community, local police also.

“The people who were there when the incident happened. The people who jumped and the ladies who jumped and tried to save my kids I really appreciate it.

“I thank them from the bottom of my heart for my family.

“Their actions embodied the very best of humanity”

Shahin Ahmed, the father of Musa, also thanked members of the local community who rushed into the water alongside emergency services in an attempt to save the family.

“In the aftermath of the tragic incident that took place on Wednesday at West Mersea Beach, our family has been devastated by the loss of our beloved relatives, Shelina and Sameeha Rahman, while my son Musa remains in critical condition,” said Mr Ahmed.

“We wish to thank the members of the local community who responded to our calls for help for their extraordinary efforts.

“Several local residents and visitors to the beach that day showed exceptional courage, kindness and selflessness as they rushed to assist my family members who were struggling in the water.

“Their actions embodied the very best of humanity, and our family will always be grateful for the bravery they showed in our hour of need.

Mr Ahmed added that he hoped lessons would be learned from the tragedy and backed calls from local residents for improved safety measures at West Mersea Beach.

“I strongly agree with the calls from local residents for a review of safety measures at West Mersea Beach, including the provision of additional life-saving equipment and clear warning signage,” he said.

“While no action now can undo the pain we are suffering, we hope lessons can be learned to help prevent similar tragedies from happening in the future.”