25th October 2003. They arrived in Portugal. NICK rang us at 11 o'clock to say he'd got there safely. After a brief chat to his Dad, I said " Have a lovely time, see you on Saturday". He said "I will, Bye".

NICK and Ross couldn't wait to explore (look for local talent!) They had a stroll and took a couple of photos then decided to go back for lunch at a local pub with Ross's parents. They then returned to base for a rest after the exhausting journey.

After a short while, NICK and Ross went out again, this time walking in the opposite direction. The coastline was far rockier and NICK asked Ross to take his photo by a large rock, closer to the sea. Just as his photo was taken, the sea came over the rock knocking him over. It was too slippery for NICK to get to his feet. A second wave swept him out to sea.
Ross raced for help.

A search & sea rescue was launched to no avail and continued until dusk. It was to be resumed at first light.