A man who lost his life trying to help a group of young swimmers who got into trouble at a beach in Co Cork has been described as a true hero, brave and selfless.
Stephen O'Callaghan, who was 55 and from Montenotte in the city, died after the incident at Inch Strand near Midleton in east Cork on Friday.
The Irish Coastguard in Valentia said it was informed that five people had got into difficulty in the water.
Four people were rescued from the water by members of the public.
Mr O'Callaghan who rushed into the sea was taken from the water in a serious condition before being brought to Cork University Hospital where he later died.
His mother Kathleen said on social media: "This is my son Stephen O'Callaghan who lost his life in saving two young boys.
"May God and his mother Mary watch over you Stephen. I Love you. Your broken hearted mother."
People responded by offering sympathy and describing Stephen as "a hero" and "a true gentleman".
His brother Emmet said on LinkedIn: "My brother Stephen unfortunately lost his life last Friday saving four children from drowning at Inch beach in Cork.
"A hero in the truest sense of the word who will be missed terribly by all who loved him.
"Never miss an opportunity to tell those people in your life what they mean to you and that you love them.God Speed Brother and will see you soon."
Those attending his funeral at North Gate Bridge in Cork city on Wednesday have been asked to donate to the RNLI instead of flowers.
Dozens of people paid tribute to Mr O'Callaghan on RIP.ie.
Many described him as "a true hero" and "brave and selfless".
Tributes included: "What courage he had, sadly he paid the price with his own life" and "What a brave and selfless man."
A file has been sent to the Coroner and an inquest into his death will be held in due course.
