More than 100 people attended the funeral yesterday of a Brighton man who drowned in a freak accident in a Spanish resort.

David Hawkins, 35, of Kemp Town, was on holiday with his partner Paul Rogers when he was dragged out to sea by the current in Sitges.

Early reports from Spanish Police said Mr Hawkins had swam out too far when he died on August 12.

However Mr Rogers said they had been just yards from the shore when the accident occurred.

Mr Rogers said: "We were wave-hopping very close to the beach, we had not been drinking any alcohol that day and the sea was not notably rough.

"We were taken out beyond our depth by a sudden change in the sea current and were panicked by being taken further and further out.

"I would warn anyone visiting the area to be extra vigilant and aware of local conditions. I heard reports of four other people being killed along the same Spanish coastline on the same day."

Family and friends attended the funeral at Downs Road Cemetery, Brighton, to pay tribute to Mr Hawkins.

Mr Rogers said: "His death has left a huge void in all our lives. Dave was a larger-than-life figure. If you met him only once, you didn't forget him.

"Dave knew how to party, didn't like to stop and made sure that if he started the day in a grouchy mood he always ended up laughing loudly - sometimes wickedly.

"He would not beat about the bush, being pretty forthright once he got to know you, but you always knew there was integrity in his words, that he spoke truly as he found.

"Dave hated deceitful and cowardly behaviour, and often became furious with politicians and bureaucrats, especially when he saw people being wronged by the system.

"However, he combined his annoyance with the world with a true loyalty to his loved ones and those in whom he believed.

"Dave would do many things to care for his mum and dad, Pam and Vic, from jobs around the home to arranging health care and support.

"He was also a loving brother and I know his sister Lesley found him a great strength when going through difficult times in life."

"Some of Dave's closest friends were the people he recorded music with in the 1980s. Their memories and the remaining recordings seem to be more about having fun and growing up together, rather than classic tracks of musical excellence. But this period at least taught Dave how to pout and throw a true rock and roll sulk!"

Mr Hawkins was planning to make big changes in his life and had been firming up these plans during the couple's Spanish trip.

He was going to give up his job in London and gain further qualifications so he could do more stimulating and rewarding work. He was excited about the future.

Mr Rogers said:"We lived together in Kemp Town in a small, varied community that made us feel really comfortable. Dave's infectious enthusiasm and lively banter will be missed on our doorstep in the early evenings.

"Dave was loud though loving, defiant though supportive, over-indulgent whilst often selfless. He gave me so much strength that I will always cherish the seven short years we had together.

"Thank you David Hawkins for being completely and uniquely just you. We love you and always will."

Donations for Mr Hawkins' funeral should be made to either the RNLI or Alzheimer's Society c/o Regency Funeral Service on 01273 603013.