A TALENTED model-maker and animal lover has died after getting into difficulties while swimming off Tankerton, near Whitstable.

Nik Quested, 42, was pulled from the sea by passers-by who spotted he was in trouble. Paramedics were on the scene within minutes but were unable to save him.

His mother, Joan, of Castle Road, Tankerton, said his death had left her with many unanswered questions.

"He loved to go in the sea when the weather was warm enough," she said. "He was not a brilliant swimmer but fairly strong and he would not have taken a chance. I was always telling him to be careful and I just don't understand what has happened."

Coroner's officers are waiting for the results of tests to see if they can find a reason for his sudden death.

Mr Quested, who made models for a children's television programme called Tugs. He was a former pupil at the Whitstable Boys' School and then Simon Langton Boys' School before going to art college in Medway to study model-making.

He had not worked for several years since taking on the care of his mother and father, who died last year.

A keen animal lover, Mr Quested had a pet rat, Biscuit, and helped care for his parents' two dogs, who also recently died.

His funeral will be held on Tuesday and donations can be made in his name to a donkey sanctuary or the RNLI, care of John Kemp Funeral Directors in Harbour Street.