SAINTS have issued a statement following the death of 17-year-old Joe Abbess at Bournemouth beach last week.

Joe, from Southampton, died on Wednesday, May 31, following an incident in the water near Bournemouth Pier which drew a massive emergency response.

Joe worked across the club on matchdays and was an aspiring chef, employed by the club’s catering and hospitality partner.

The statement reads: “We’re extremely saddened to hear the news of the tragic passing of Joe Abbess.

“Joe was not only a valued employee of Gather & Gather, the club’s hospitality and catering partner, but a cherished member of our football family here at the club.

“For more than a year Joe had worked across the club on matchdays as a kitchen porter, aspiring chef and popular colleague amongst all staff. 

“The thoughts of everyone associated with both the club and Gather & Gather are with Joe’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

Joe's family have also paid tribute to him, describing him as "a wonderful son and brother".

Joe died along with 12-year-old Sunnah Khan from High Wycombe, who was laid to rest on Saturday. 

The pair were not known to each other. 

The police investigation into the incident, which saw eight other people rescued from the water, remains ongoing.

Dorset Police are "keeping an open mind" about the cause of the tragedy.

A man in his 40s who was on the water at the time was arrested on suspicion of manslaughter but has since been released under investigation.

Police did not specify where he is from or his exact age.

A 49-year-old sightseeing boat is also being investigated with officers seen inspecting the impounded vessel at Poole.