A disabled teenager from Chafford Hundred has drowned while on a holiday with his family in Spain.

Derek Hynd, who had learning difficulties caused by meningitis, did not return from a kayaking trip off the beach at Estartit on the Costa Brava.

The 19-year-old had gone out on the boating adventure after hiring a kayak for 800 pesetas. The day before he had been out kayaking with his father Steve and sister Heather and enjoyed it so much he wanted to go again.

Although, he had learning difficulties he was physically fit, had his own gym in his garage and often competed in disabled sporting events.

When Derek failed to return his worried parents Steve and wife Anne drove down to the beach to look for him.

Prison governor Steve, 43, said: "We knew straight away that when he had not returned by 6pm, when he said he would, that something was wrong.

"I knew straight away that something tragic had happened."

After several hours they alerted the police and a massive air and sea search was launched.

Derek's body was not found until Saturday night, two days after he went missing.

Mr Hynd said: "We don't know exactly what happened. Derek was such a strong swimmer - he ran and swam at national level - we never thought anything like this would happen to him."

His parents have now returned home and Derek's body is expected to be flown home to the UK on Friday, when an inquest will be opened.

The family moved from Durham to the Grays area two years ago because they felt there would be better employment opportunities for Derek.

He found a job straight away at McDonalds where he worked as a security guard.

Mrs Hynd, 44, said: "He was the most generous and loving son.

"He never had any faults.

"His only fault was that he was too good and kind to people. He was an angel."

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