Harbour tragedy - second body found

Police said that at 3.45pm on Tuesday, June 12, a kite surfer reported seeing a body 3-400 metres out to sea directly south of Littlehampton Swimming Centre.

The body was recovered by the RNLI Inshore Lifeboat and returned to shore.

The mother of two-year-old Arun, who was found dead in the river which bears his name on Sunday, today released a statement through Sussex Police.

Sheena Basnayake, 35, said: "Arun was a beautiful, adventurous, and loving little boy, adored and treasured by his father and I.

"He enjoyed nothing more than running about in the fresh air and playing with his friends.

"He loved the water, and would always be excited if he was going on an adventure with his Dad; no less so on Sunday.

"He made an unforgettable impact on me, my life and everyone that met him. I cannot find words to describe the impact of his loss, and I would appreciate it if very much if I were not asked to try.

"All I can say is that he was my raison d'etre, my very reason to live, and now I need time to learn to understand, remember, and be left to grieve in peace.

"I would, however, like to take this opportunity to thank the Littlehampton RNLI lifeboat and Coastguard, Sussex Police and the search teams, Family Liaison Officers, and Worthing and Great Ormond Street Hospitals for their diligence and care."