Brit couple drown in South Africa

Newlyweds had arrived only days before on honeymoon

NEWLYWED Brits drowned days after arriving in South Africa for their honeymoon.

The bodies of John and Lynette Rodgers, 28 and 26, were discovered on Robberg Beach in Plettenberg Bay on Friday.

The pair had only married last weekend.

Emergency crews tried to revive them but they were declared dead at the scene.
It is believed they had gone for a swim together.

The couple were said to be fit but sea conditions were rough with strong rip-currents.

The beach at Plettenberg Bay Getty Images

An investigation has been launched by South African authorities but foul play is not suspected.

The devastated families of the newly-weds have spoken of their shock and sorrow at the tragedy. In a joint statement, they said: “It has come as a great shock to both the Reilly and Rodgers families to learn of the sudden and tragic events in South Africa, which has taken the lives of Lynette and John.

“Our happiness in sharing their recent wedding has been thoroughly devastated. Both were very dearly loved and brought us great joy.”

A picture was released of the couple, from Holywood, Co Down, on their wedding day. It is believed they knew golf ace Rory McIlroy.