Man who drowned with daughter 'highly respected'

A father who drowned in the sea while trying to save his daughter when she got into difficulty has been described as "highly valued and respected" by his former employer.

John Collins, from Doncaster, had only retired as a technical engineer at fencing and security specialists Heras UK in May, having worked there for 47 years.

The 66-year-old was on holiday in Cornwall with his daughter Samantha, 32, when they entered the water while fishing at Fistral Beach in Newquay on 26 July. Both died at the scene.

Heras managing director Graham England said staff at the Doncaster firm were in "real shock" at the news of their deaths.

John, who was married, and Samantha lived at the same house in the Bennetthorpe area of the city.

On Tuesday, at the opening of an inquest into their deaths, it was heard the pair had been fishing on rocks when Samantha was dragged into the sea and her father jumped in to try to save her.

In a statement, England said: "John was a highly respected and valued member of the Heras family, dedicating 47 years of service to the business. Throughout his career, he earned the respect and friendship of colleagues across the company, and his contribution to Heras will not be forgotten.

"The news of the tragic loss of John and his daughter, Samantha, has come as a real shock to everyone.

"On behalf of everyone at Heras, we extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to John's family, friends and all those affected by this devastating news.

"John will be greatly missed by all who knew him."

The inquest was adjourned until July 2027, when a full hearing will take place.

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