Tragic couple Lynette and John Rodgers who drowned while on honeymoon in South Africa

THE families of a newly-wed couple from Northern Ireland who drowned while on honeymoon in South Africa have said they have been left “thoroughly devastated”.

John and Lynette Rodgers, from Holywood, were found on a beach at Plettenberg Bay in the Western Cape on Friday.

Valiant attempts were made to resuscitate them with CPR, but they had died at the scene.

Rescue workers said sea conditions were rough at the time, with strong rip-currents in the water.

In a statement on Sunday morning, their families said: “It has come as a great shock to both the Reilly and Rodgers families to learn of the sudden and tragic events in South Africa, which has taken the lives of Lynette and John.

“Our happiness in sharing their recent wedding has been thoroughly devastated.

“Both were very dearly loved and brought us great joy.”

The family have also asked their privacy now be respected in their hour of grief.

It is believed the couple had gone for a swim shortly after arriving at the popular tourist resort.

A local man raised the alarm at about 18:00 local time after discovering the body of Mr Rodgers, 28, in shallow surf on Robberg Beach, the National Sea Rescue Institute said.

Two women walking along the beach found the body of Mrs Rodgers, 26, about 200 metres away.

The UK Foreign Office said it was providing assistance to both families “at this extremely difficult time, and will remain in contact with local authorities”.