A British family’s holiday in the Bahamas has ended in tragedy after a 36-year-old mother lost her life while attempting to save her two sons from being swept out to sea.

Leanne Gregory, from Stapleford in Nottinghamshire, died after entering the water to rescue her children, who were caught in a powerful current during the family’s trip to the Caribbean.

Her husband, Nathan Gregory, said the holiday was intended as an early celebration of their 10th wedding anniversary, which falls in December. The couple had travelled together with their sons to enjoy what was meant to be a memorable family getaway.

According to Nathan, the boys had been snorkelling in shallow water while their parents arranged their belongings on the beach when they suddenly encountered difficulties in the sea.

Both parents rushed into the water in an attempt to save their children as the current carried them away. Nathan said the frightening incident unfolded in less than 10 minutes.

The boys were eventually rescued on Tuesday, but Leanne could not be saved. She was later taken to a medical clinic after being found unresponsive at the North Bimini Ferry Dock, where emergency efforts, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), were carried out.

The Royal Bahamas Police Force confirmed her death and said an autopsy would be conducted. Authorities added that foul play was not suspected.

Speaking after returning home with his children, Nathan described his late wife as his childhood sweetheart, revealing that they had known each other since primary school and began their relationship at the age of 14.

He said their relationship had lasted 22 years, describing Leanne as an exceptionally kind and generous woman who devoted herself to her family.

Nathan also praised her as a loving mother and wife, saying her contribution to the family was irreplaceable. He described her actions during the incident as heroic, noting that she had helped save their children.

He added that Leanne loved the ocean and that the holiday had been planned around her interest in marine life, alongside the family’s enjoyment of good food.

As Nathan focuses on supporting his sons through the loss, a GoFundMe campaign has reportedly attracted nearly £9,000 in donations to help the family.

Tributes have continued to pour in from residents and organisations in Stapleford. Richard MacRae, a Broxtowe Borough councillor representing the town’s northern area, described the incident as heartbreaking and said the close-knit community would rally around the bereaved family.

Stapleford Fire Station also expressed sadness over the death, extending its thoughts to Leanne’s relatives and friends.

The British Foreign Office confirmed it was in contact with local authorities and was providing assistance to the family following the tragedy.