The Garlinge grandfather of a toddler swept to her death in a freak seaside accident has paid tribute to a lively and loving youngster who was “the apple of her father’s eye”.

Barry Hopper, 69, spoke of the devastating death of his two-year-old granddaughter Rebecca Hopper last Sunday afternoon (February 15).

The youngster and her eight-month-old brother Lewis were strapped into their double buggy when it was caught by a strong guest of wind at The Warren, Folkestone.

Mr Hopper said: “Rebecca was a wonderful girl. She was a very lively young girl with her own individual sense of humour."

The horrifying tragedy happened as Rebecca’s father Andrew, 38, strolled along the promenade with the two children.

He jumped into the water in a desperate attempt to save the youngsters and was joined by other rescuers who frantically tried to unstrap the brother and sister from the buggy.

Rebecca died as she was being airlifted to the Royal London Hospital but Lewis is making a good recovery since undergoing treatment at the William Harvey Hospital, Ashford.

Mr Hopper said: “Andrew is devastated at Rebecca’s death. I’ve told him that he musn’t blame himself for what happened. This was a tragic accident that could have happened at any place at any time.”

Mr Hopper also expressed his heartfelt thanks to the people who took part in the rescue attempt.

For the full story, see the Thanet Extra, out on Wednesday February 25