A family have raised thousands of pounds for Tynemouth RNLI lifeboat station in memory of their brother who drowned in the sea 40 years ago.
Peter Brennan, of Wallsend, died aged 28 years old while swimming at night with friends at Tynemouth Longsands beach on July 31, in 1976.
His death devastated his family, including his seven siblings who organised two charity events to celebrate his life.
The first event was a fun walk and pram push from North Shields Fish Quay to Tynemouth Front Street which included a bucket collection along the way.
This was followed by a charity night at the Lindisfarne Social Club in Wallsend featuring 70s music, including Slade, which was Peter’s favourite band.
Peter’s sister, Shirley-Ann Millen said: “I was only 14 when Peter died. It happened in 1976 when there was a great heatwave – it was one of the hottest summers ever.
“Peter had gone out with his friends and they went to the beach at the end of the day. They all got into the water and Peter went missing. His body was found around a week or so later. It was found that he had drowned accidentally.
“It has been 40 years, but none of us have forgotten Peter and we wanted to do something to celebrate his life.
“He was always full of fun and good for a laugh. He was a charmer and a bit of a joker. Our sister Eileen always wanted to do something in his memory and we decided to organise these events to mark the 40th anniversary of Peter’s death.
£4,347 was raised in total which will go to the RNLI, both nationally and to Tynemouth lifeboat station.
The family are also urging members of the public to stay safe at the seaside.
Shirley-Ann added: “We are in the summer months and many people are heading down to the beach to enjoy themselves.
“We want to put the message out that it is important to be careful and be aware of the dangers around water.”
A fundraising page has also been created where money can be donated www.justgiving.com/fundraising/SHIRLEYANN-MILLEN
Comprehensive advice about staying safe in and around water can be found at RespectTheWater.com