A STUDENT died after she got caught in an underwater vortex while diving in the sea, an inquest heard.
Emily Sherwin vanished at Old Harry Rocks, near Swanage, , last July – with her body still tragically missing.
An inquest heard how the 20-year-old had “loved” diving since completing her Padi qualification the previous summer.
Her mum Ellen Sherwin said: “She was passionate about the natural world, particularly the sea world, her hero was David Attenborough.
“She started diving a year before and immediately loved it. She described a deep sense of calm when under the sea, ironically she described it as a safe place.”
On July 23, 2024, Emily, who was studying marine conservation at the University of , headed into the water with a dive buddy.
But the pair became separated after Emily got caught in the underwater current.
A huge multi-agency search was launched for the student but sadly her body was not located.
Coroner Richard Middleton said he was unable to provide a cause of death as Emily is still missing.
Recording a narrative verdict, he added: “Upon entry to the water, Ms Sherwin has got caught in a vortex, she became separated from her dive buddy and failed to return to the surface.
“An extensive search was launched by a number of agencies but Ms Sherwin could not be found.”
Her family previously thanked those who helped looked for Emily after her disappearance.
They added: “We are heartbroken at the loss of Emily, but eternally grateful for the 20 wonderful years we had with her, and finding comfort in the fact that she was doing something she loved.
“Emily was unique: high spirited, outgoing, loving and loyal. She lit up every room. Emily adored the sea and loved sailing and diving. She was looking forward to an exciting career in marine conservation.
“The search operation was a testimony to the impact she had upon everyone she met and the love we all share for her.
“We will miss her forever.”
