Notts School In Mourning Over Teacher's Death

11 August 2015, 10:03 | Updated: 30 March 2016, 13:50

Sunny Beach Bulgaria

Flowers have been left in tribute to a 24-year-old Nottinghamshire teacher who died in Bulgaria

Pupils, their parents and staff at the Huthwaite All Saints Church of England School have been paying their respects to PE teacher Ethan McKen who was reportedly swept away when a wave hit him over the weekend.

Mr McKen was reported missing on Saturday after taking a morning swim at the Sunny Beach resort on the Black Sea.

The Foreign Office confirmed his body had been found on Sunday.

A tribute from the school said: ``Mr McKen was a much loved teacher by all the children and staff he worked with.

``He had a great sense of humour, always gave his best, had a smile on his face, was willing to help and a pleasure to work with.''

Another, from a pupil named Thomas, said: ``I'm sad you have gone and I love you.''

Mr McKen had been travelling with a group of five friends to the resort, tour operator Thomas Cook said.

One other member of the group also entered the sea, but returned safely and was said to be recovering in a local medical centre.

Nottingham-based Bulwell FC, for which Mr McKen played, wrote on Facebook: ``Thoughts are with the family of Bulls defender Ethan McKen who has tragically been swept out to sea whilst holidaying in Bulgaria. RIP Ethan.''