22-year-old Blackpool man dies after jumping in sea to save stranger's life

Alex Gibson from Blackpool went into the water close to Blackpool's North Pier at around 4.20am on Friday after seeing a person struggling in the waves.

Tragically, Alex got in to difficultly himself, and emergency services, including HM Coastguards at Fleetwood and Lytham, the RNLI from Fleetwood and Blackpool, and a Coastguard helicopter were called to search for the young man.

Alex was eventually located and taken to Blackpool's Victoria Hospital where he sadly died.

Posting on their Facebook page, C Fresh Chippy in Blackpool, where Alex worked, wrote an emotional tribute to the 22-year-old.

The post read: "Thank you to everyone for all your lovely messages on yesterday’s post .

I’d just like to add Alex was truly an amazing young man.

"All his friends would agree that he was intelligent, hardworking, pleasant, caring, and literally wouldn’t hurt a fly.

"He is a true hero, drowned sacrificing his life to help another.

"He was loved by all his work colleagues, and we miss him terribly. Tragically taken at 22.

"My heart goes out to all his family."

A fundraising page has now been set up for Alex's family with organiser, Hamish Howitt stating: "The beautiful Alex Gibson, 22, a true hero sacrificed his life last night in Blackpool, rescuing a boy from the sea.

"A beautiful, caring, loving, son, brother and friend to all who knew him.

"Please help by donating for a beautiful send off for a true hero.

"First £500 will be donated by our family. God bless to all."

The fundraiser has already amassed more than £,3500.

To donate, visit: gofundme.com