Families pay tribute to Brighton men swept out to sea

Dan Nicholls (left) and Freddie Reynolds (right) who drowned off the Brighton coast. Credit: Sussex Police

The families of two Brighton flatmates who died after being swept out to sea have paid tribute.

Dan Nicholls and Freddie Reynolds were reported missing at around 1.30am on Saturday morning prompting a massive search operation.

The close friends were old schoolfriends and used to share a flat together in the city.

Freddie’s family said: “Freddie was a very loyal and brilliant friend. He was always looking out for his friends and family and people loved to be around him. He was incredibly funny and loved a joke and a banter around the dinner table.

“He had a variety of interests and could often be found skateboarding at The Level or updating his online music under the name of FRNZ.

“He was a brillant partner to girlfriend Stephanie and was always showering her in cuddles. Sister Rosie describes him as a wonderful brother who was always there for her. He has a half brother Matthew. He had been a student at Dorothy Stringer School and was now working as a dispensary technician at Ashtons where he was popular amongst his colleagues.

“His loss will leave a huge void in a lot of people’s lives. His friends and family would like to thank everyone who has been involved in the search for Freddie.”

Dan’s family said: “Dan was very bright, he was quick and witty with lots of friends to whom he was close and loyal. He loved music which he both made and produced. Dan had a passion for cookery and in July last year prepared a culinary feast as part of his graduation celebrations.

“Dan enjoyed skateboarding at The Level in Brighton with friends and was also a Brighton & Hove Albion season ticket with his mother. Dan was a sensitive individual who had a real enthusiasm for life. He was a gentleman who always showed concern for others and was a great “hugger”.

“Dan was bright and insightful and was a close friend of Freddie.

“Dan leaves his mother Wendy and his sister Martha. The family have received well wishes from a number of people and he was clearly well loved by many.”

Meanwhile a body, washed up on the Saltdean shores in believed to be that of one of the men – formal identification is yet to take place.

DCI Carwyn Hughes said: “This is a tragic incident and we are supporting the families involved. The body recovered on the beach is likely to be one of the two men and we are doing all we can to find the other with Coastguard further involved.”