Two British brothers aged 11 and 13 have died after going for a swim at a beach in Spain. The tragic incident happened off Llarga beach in Salou, Tarragona, on Tuesday night, confirmed Catalonia's Civil Protection force.

The boys' father, who had also entered the water, was rescued alive. Emergency services were first alerted at 8.27pm local time. Paramedics, Catalan Police, and five units from the Generalitat Fire Brigade were dispatched to the scene, and psychologists were also sent to assist the family.

Authorities said this marked the 15th and 16th deaths on Catalan beaches since the summer season began on June 15, which "already exceeds by five those registered in the same period last summer".

Catalonia's Civil Protection said in a statement yesterday: "Two brothers, of British nationality and aged 11 and 13, drowned this evening on the Llarga beach in Salou (Tarragona). The father of the minors, who had also entered the water, was rescued alive.

"The emergency telephone number 112 received the warning at 8.47pm. Seven land units of the Medical Emergency System (SEM) intervened in the incident, as well as a team of psychologists activated by the same service to assist the relatives."

"The Civil Protection of the Generalitat reminds us of the importance of taking extreme precautions on beaches, swimming pools and inland waters this summer.

"If you notice that someone is unwell or has difficulties in the water, you should urgently notify the lifeguard service or call 112 to facilitate their rapid action."

We'll be bringing you the very latest updates, pictures and video on this breaking news story.

For the latest news and breaking news visit: News - Latest UK & World News Stories | Express.co.uk

Stay up to date with all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you.

Follow our social media accounts here on facebook.com/DailyExpress and @‌Daily_Express