Tribute to Hastings man who died in sea tragedy: ‘He will forever be greatly missed’

Chris Baguley, 38, was pulled from the water at East Beach Street, Hastings, at around 11.20am on Thursday last week (October 8), alongside his friend, a 34-year-old man from London who has not yet been named.

The two men received treatment from emergency services at the scene before being taken to the Conquest Hospital, police said.

Both men died at the hospital later that day, Sussex Police confirmed on Monday (October 12).

Chris Baguley had been working as the executive chef and operations manager at the popular country pub The Plough and its joint restaurant business The Union, in Rye.

Rajh Siva, director of the group, said Chris ‘played a vital role in not only the running of the business but also it’s growth’.

He added: “From the day he joined the business he was a key driving force and its success now is largely due to his skill, knowledge and expertise in the industry.

“He was a leader, a mentor and, most of all, a caring friend to all he worked alongside. Many of his team credit their skillset and ability to his training and devotion to their development, which was second to none.

“He will forever be greatly missed and the mark he left will continue with us as we try to adjust to a life without our very loved friend, who we had the privilege to work alongside.”

On Monday, a spokesman for Sussex Police said next of kin had been informed and the matter had been passed to the coroner’s officer.

Emergency services at the scene were joined by the air ambulance service.