A British toddler has died after drowning in a pool during a family holiday in Greece. The three-year-old boy was found dead in a swimming pool on Sunday afternoon, with ambulances called to Tsilivi, a village on the Greek island of Zakynthos.
Emergency services were called to the scene and transported the boy to the hospital, where he was sadly pronounced dead. A Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office spokesperson confirmed a British child died in Greece. A spokesperson for the Government department said they are liaising with local authorities. They said: "We are providing consular support to the family of a British child who has died in Greece and are in contact with the local authorities."
Greek state broadcaster ERT reported the toddler was with his mother, two aunts and grandparents who were renting a villa when he died.
The child had reportedly entered the pool waters while other family members - who were inside the villa at the time - prepared to go out for lunch.
He was then found unconscious in the water by his grandfather after the family launched a desperate search.
A local police probe into the child's death on Sunday evening, which is being coordinated by an investigating court, is ongoing. His grief-stricken relatives will be questioned as part of the inquiry.
The family reportedly stayed at a £2,000-a-week four-bedroom villa in Tsilivi, on Zante's northeastern coast, just over two miles west of the capital Zakynthos. The property is described online as a "true gem "tucked away in a completely private location.
The description states it is "nestled in a secluded oasis", adding: "Our villa offers the perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty."
The villa's description states: "Our villa is a true gem, tucked away in a completely private location. As you step onto our property, you'll be greeted by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of nature.
"The centrepiece of our villa is the sparkling private pool, inviting you to take a refreshing dip or simply lounge in the sun, surrounded by swaying trees and the scent of Mediterranean blossoms."
