Morgan Rogers

Tributes have been paid to three people who died while paddleboarding in a Welsh river at the weekend.

They have now been named as Morgan Rogers , 24, from Merthyr Tydfil , Nicola Wheatley, 40, from Pontarddulais, Swansea, and Paul O'Dwyer, 42, from Sandfields, Neath Port Talbot .

A Woman also remains in a Critical Condition in hospital, police said.

They had been part of a group of nine on an excursion exploring The River Cleddau in Haverfordwest on Saturday.

A further five people were pulled out of The River by emergency services, but had no injuries.

The Family of Miss Rogers, a deputy store manager at a supermarket, said: " Morgan was a beautiful, kind and loving soul, beloved by all who have been touched by her warm smile and her caring personality.

" Morgan was never happier than when she was in the outdoors doing what she loved and spending time with her family.

" She will be greatly missed by her family and friends and all those she has known along The Way . Morgan will always be in our hearts and our memories. We will miss her dearly. "

Morgan was described as " The Best that she could be". Her family addes she would be missed by her mother, father, Rhys, Harry, Holly and Katy".

The Family of Nicola Wheatley, A Mother , said they were " devastated by our loss" adding: " Nicola was a beautiful, caring, considerate and funny person. She was amazing in every way.

" She has left A Void in our lives that will never be filled. "

She worked for the Cardiff and Vale health board as a specialist in poisons information, providing advice to healthcare professionals managing poisoned patients.

A statement from colleagues described her as a " gifted and dedicated scientist" who made significant contributions to The Field of toxicology and presented her work at an international level.

" She will be remembered for her calm, friendly and totally professional Manner - Even when faced with The Most difficult of cases, " they said.

" Through her lovely personality, Nikki made many friends during her Time In public service and will be sorely missed by her friends and colleagues. "

The Family of Mr O'Dwyer said he " gave his life to save others" in The Incident , describing him as a " devoted husband, father, son and brother".

" He devoted his life to contributing to society in his many adventures in raising money for different causes, " the said.

" Paul was a water baby. His passion for the water started with Aberavon lifeguards from an early age.

" His sporting prowess extended to many different sports. He was an Army surfing champion, British Army seven-a-side rugby team member, Aberavon Green Stars rugby player, ski instructor and completed multiple times in British and Welsh Three Peaks events. "

The Group were from the South Wales Paddle Boarders and Salty Dog Co, an organisation based in Port Talbot .

One of those on The Trip , Vickie Mckinven from Milford Haven , said Mr O'Dwyer died attempting to rescue two fellow paddleboarders who had got into difficulty near The Weir .

Ms Mckinven said she had pulled out of The Morning paddle because she was concerned about The Weather conditions.

In a statement read outside Haverfordwest Police Station , Det Ch Insp Jonathan Rees, of Dyfed-Powys Police, revealed The Nine people got into difficulties after reaching The Weir near Quay Street .

He Said The Force first received reports of people in difficulty at about 09:00 BST on Saturday.

" A group of nine adults from the South Wales area had travelled to Pembrokeshire for a paddle boarding excursion yet had got into difficulties at The Weir adjacent to Quay Street .

" A significant operation, a rescue operation, was commenced involving resources from Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Wales Ambulance Service Trust, Dyfed-Powys Police, the coastguard and the RNLI. Search activity was assisted by helicopters. "

He added the exact circumstances are now being " thoroughly investigated".

Det Ch Insp Rees said his thoughts are with the families of those who lost loved ones, and of the injured person, adding: " Paddleboarding is a growing leisure pursuit and we would encourage those engaging in The Activity to ensure they understand The Weather conditions and water conditions at a particular location where they may be enjoying that sport. "

Source of news: bbc.com