A Darlington man has died after getting into difficulty in the sea at a Portuguese beach.

Paul Calow, 41, was born and brought up in Darlington before moving to Spain 20 years ago.

The expat, known as ‘Ginge’, has been named by his family as the British man who died after getting into difficulty off the Sao Pedro de Moel beach near the town of Nazare, north of Lisbon, Portugal, at about 3pm on Wednesday (October 4).

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Paul’s brother Dale, who ran a printing and signage business with him on the continent, told The Northern Echo he was “a mess” at the loss of his brother who he described as a “beautiful person” and his “best friend”.

The Northern Echo: Dale, left, has paid tribute to his brother Paul 'Ginge' Calow (right) who died in Portugese waters this week.Dale, left, has paid tribute to his brother Paul 'Ginge' Calow (right) who died in Portugese waters this week. (Image: FAMILY)

Dale, who lives in Spain, said: “I already miss him.

“He was my brother. He was my best friend.

"All I want is to hear his voice."

Paul had been receiving treatment at a secure rehab unit in Portugal. His brother said he “screamed to go” as he “knew he needed and wanted help” having struggled with his mental health and drug addiction.

On Wednesday a group from the unit went on a walk and swim on the beach as part of their therapy when Paul got into trouble at sea.

The Northern Echo: Sao Pedro de Moel beach.Sao Pedro de Moel beach. (Image: GOOGLE)

According to national media, official sources said there was no lifeguard on the beach, which is said to be popular with surfers, at the time.

It is reported a surfer tried to save him, but Paul sadly passed away.

Dale added: “He was on the mend. He was so happy, waiting to show you all and make me proud.

“He struggled hugely with his mental health because he had a huge heart.

“Ginge was a beautiful person, please remember his eyes and smile, please remember my brother.

“You will never find another Ginge.”

The Northern Echo: Dale and Paul Calow.Dale and Paul Calow. (Image: FAMILY)

Paul was born in Darlington in 1982 and went to Mowden Junior School before attending Hummersknott until 1998.

He then worked in the family business from the age of 16 until he moved to Spain a few years later. His parents Don and Jan followed him to the Iberian peninsula a year later.

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Some of the family including his uncle and cousins still live in Darlington.

A funeral is expected to be held in Spain later next week. Details of the ceremony will be posted on the Facebook page of his and Dale’s business, ‘Positive Signs and Designs’.

The Foreign Office said they had not been approached to provide assistance.