Post-mortem tests on Birmingham women who 'drowned' in Spain

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-34424305

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Post-mortem examinations are due to be carried out on two Birmingham women believed to have drowned off the coast of Spain.

A Spanish search and rescue team spokesman said the bodies were found at Lloret de Mar on Thursday and were taken to a nearby medical centre.

Police said the sea had been in "very bad condition" and a red flag was flying on the beach.

The accident happened in the early hours of Thursday.

Local people say one of the women went for a swim but got into trouble in rough waters so her friend dived in after her. Both women, who are thought to be in their 30s, were swept away.

They and three friends had earlier been posing for pictures on the beach.

A man who works in a nearby bar said a security guard had warned them not to go in the sea as the waves were up to 4m (13.1ft) high.

Rescue teams were alerted at 04:15 local time after the women - reported to be 33 and 36 - failed to return from a swim in the sea, a Spanish news website said.

A Foreign Office spokesman said: "We can confirm the death of two British nationals who had been reported missing in Lloret de Mar on 1 October.

"We are providing support to the families and those who were travelling with the individuals at this difficult time.