TRIBUTES have been paid to a teenager who died in the early hours of Monday morning after entering the water at Pembroke’s Mill Pond.

The teenager, named as Rob Mansfield of Pembroke, got into difficulties at around 2.40am on July 27.

Tragically, Mr Mansfield had been celebrating his 18th birthday the night before his death.

In a statement on Tuesday afternoon, his family said: "It is with deepest sadness we can confirm that our beloved Rob tragically died on the morning of Monday 27th July 2015. He had spent the previous day enjoying himself surrounded by family and friends, as it was his 18th birthday.

"Rob was a kind and caring lad whom adored his nan, helping her care for his grandad, Tom. He will be missed so much by us and all that knew him."

Following a call to emergency services, some 20 firefighters from Pembroke Dock, Milford Haven and Carmarthen, including specialist Swift Water Rescue teams using search boats, were involved in the search, joined by the Coastguard, RAF Kinloss, police and the local authority.

His body was recovered by firefighters on Monday morning.

Dyfed-Powys Police Temporary Inspector Catrin Thomas said: “At approximately 2.40am this morning, police received reports that an 18-year-old man had gone into the water in Mill Pond, Pembroke, had got into difficulties and had not been seen since.”

He added: "The search has continued throughout the night, but sadly the body of a male person has now been recovered.

"Next of kin have been informed.”

Tributes have been paid to Mr Mansfield on social networking website Facebook.

Mr Mansfield’s auntie, Susan Mansfield, described his death as “a tragic accident,” posting: “Hardest thing I've ever written as I love him so much and will miss him with all my heart. Sweet dreams Rob xxx”

She added: “Even before you were born you was a little rascal, you still are, but you were turning into a fine young man. My God Rob, I love you as my own son. Part of me died today with you, but you will always be in my heart.”

Cousin Antony Mansfield: “Words cannot describe how gutted I am about the loss of my younger cousin Rob Mansfield, I have some of the best memories growing up with him which will never be forgotten.”

Friend Shannon Charge posted: “...we had a brill night until you went missing in the pond. You were a lovely gentleman. What a star, always there for everyone, you would do anything for anyone too.”

Speaking after hearing the news, Pembroke county councillor Jon Nutting said: “Our thoughts are with the family, whatever the circumstances, they must be devastated; the people that are left are the ones that are going to be hurting.”

Monday’s death is the third connected with Pembroke’s Mill Pond this year.