FAMILIES have paid tribute to the two people who died following an incident at Bournemouth beach.

Joe Abbess, 17 and Sunnah Khan, 12 lost their lives at sea on Wednesday, May 31.

Emergency services rescued 10 people from the water, Joe and Sunnah later died in hospital as a result of their critical injuries.

In a statement Joe's family said: “We are heartbroken and devastated at the death of our Joe. He was a wonderful son and brother who is sadly missed.

Read more: Police confirmed several lines of enquiry into beach deaths

"His family and friends will always love him, and we are incredibly proud of the fabulous young man he was. He was kind and generous, loving, and caring, hardworking, and funny.

"Joe was a talented trainee chef, with a bright future ahead of him. We were privileged to have him in our lives for 17 years and we are so sorry he will never fulfil his dreams and ambitions.

"He was enjoying a day at the beach on Wednesday, and we would like to thank his friends and all of the emergency services who helped him, when this tragedy unfolded.

"We were privileged to have him in our lives for 17 years and we are so sorry he will never fulfil his dreams and ambitions.”

The family of Sunnah Khan also paid tribute, saying: “She was an absolute force of nature, liked by all and loved by so many.

Read more: 'Heroic' teens helped save swimmers in water

"She will be sorely missed by her parents, siblings, and friends.

"There are no words to describe the hole she has left in all of our hearts, but we will remember her every day for the rest of our lives."

A friend of Sunnah’s said: "She will be missed by everyone; she was very popular and her death will leave a hole that will be impossible to fill.”

More than 200 people attended her funeral to say goodbye and pay their respects. 

Dorset Police are currently investigating the incident, a 40-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter but has now been released under investigation.