(Metro UK) Derek Arthur Silverthorne, 79, from Brighton, was seen unconscious in the water near the Bisucay island in Cuyo by a passing ferry.

He was last seen alive swimming in the sea on Saturday morning before he was found shortly before midday.

The expatriate, who was part of the local watersports association was wearing a rash guard diving top and flippers when officers retrieved him.

Coastguards attempted to revive him with CPR but he was pronounced dead at the scene.

Bill’s Jimmy from the Cuyo Watersports Association described him as the ‘happiest person’ in an emotional tribute.