Jonathan Smith, 61, had been minding his grandchildren during a family holiday in Greece when he noticed the two boys, aged seven and 10, struggling amongst the waves and becoming trapped up against rocks.
Witnesses say that the brave grandfather dashed into the water to save his grandchildren but found himself instantly stuck against the rocks.
Mr Smith eventually got a hold of his struggling grandchildren and carried the youngsters to the waiting arms of local rescuers and lifeguards. Sadly, Mr Smith was then swept out to sea where he drowned.
Locals were unable to rescue the grandfather and the coast guard soon arrived to bring his body back to shore.
In an interview with The Sun, Mr Smith’s heartbroken son David, 34, of Carluke, Lanarkshire told reporters: “I can’t believe I’ll never see him again.”
He added: “I loved my dad very much. He is my hero. I still can’t believe I’m never going to see him again after he left to go on his holidays. It’s an unexpected tragedy.”
David described his father as a devoted and courageous family man who had recently retired and was a massive fan of St Helen’s rugby league club.
