Photographer Jacob Cockle dies in Hayle whirlpool zone
A man has died after getting into trouble while swimming in an area of Cornwall known for its whirlpools.
The man, named locally as Jacob Cockle from Penzance, was spotted floating face down at Carnsew Pool in the Hayle Estuary, at about 21:00 BST on Tuesday.
He was airlifted to the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro where he was pronounced dead, police said.
Friends have paid tribute to the 28-year-old photographer and "experienced" surfer.
Lee Harvey, 35, owner of Pasty Adventures kitesurfing school in Hayle, said he had known Mr Cockle for more than 20 years and was "shocked" at what had happened.
He said: "Jacob was one of the nicest, friendliest watermen you could meet. He was very experienced."
He added a memorial service was being planned, as well as a party in Mr Cockle's memory for friends.
"It [the party] will probably be at Sennen beach. That was his favourite," Mr Harvey said.
Friend and photographer Mike Newman added that Mr Jacob was known to the people of Penzance as a "very talented photographer and surfer".
Paying tribute on Facebook, he said: "Gutted to hear about the death of photographer Jacob Cockle, whose inspirational photos were eclipsed only by his zest for life.
"A sad and unfair loss to the art and surf community and his family, who our thoughts are with. RIP Jake."
Crew members from St Ives RNLI, who were first on the scene, tried to revive Mr Cockle.
Ken Bazeley, from Falmouth Coastguard, said: "The person was worked on extensively there and then airlifted to hospital.
"Our heart goes out to his family and friends."
Carnsew Pool was constructed to flush sand from the harbour in 1830 and is now part of a nature reserve.
Devon and Cornwall Police have appealed for witnesses, but added that the death was not being treated as suspicious.