Inquests into the deaths of three parents who died trying to save their children from strong sea currents in Portugal will be held today.

Robert Fry, 52, Deborah Rose Fry, 48, and Barbara Jean Dinsmore, 43, all of Wootton Bassett, died at Praia do Tonel beach near Sagres in October last year.

Mr and Mrs Fry's two children, Rosie, 11 and George, nine, survived along with Mrs Dinsmore's two children, Lydia, 11, and Alex, nine.

The trio and a German man, who also died trying to save his daughter, raced into the sea to save the group of seven children who had got into difficulties before they were swept away to their own deaths in the Algarve.

They were dragged ashore but attempts to resuscitate them on the beach failed.

Three other British adults were taken to hospital following the incident.

The beach is popular with surfers because of its strong waves but there were no lifeguards on duty at the time.

The families had been on a half-term holiday at the golfing resort of Parque de Floresta.

At the time of the deaths Prime Minister Gordon Brown told the House of Commons: "Our heartfelt thoughts are with the children of those who died."

The inquest into the three deaths will be resumed today at Swindon Coroner's Court.