THE devastated family of the youngster who drowned in the sea at Clacton have paid tribute to their special girl.

Ten-year-old Stella Akanbi went missing while playing with a friend on Sunday afternoon, sparking a huge search and rescue operation.

Search teams found her body almost 24 hours later. Her friend, also ten, was rescued by a holidaymaker.

Stella’s heartbroken family, from Milton Keynes, thanked the rescue services for their efforts to find her.

In a statement, they said: “Stella’s family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult period. We feel privileged to have had such support at this time.

“Our deepest thanks especially go to Essex Police, Thames Coastguard, the RNLI, the RAF rescue helicopter team, and staff of all the agencies who assisted in the rescue operation.

“Our Stella was a special child indeed. She touched the lives of those who came in contact with her.

“She was a good athlete and represented Milton Keynes in competitions. She was also a talented writer who enjoyed writing poetry.”

An inquest will be held at a later date.