Tributes have been paid to a pastor and his two children who drowned at a resort on the Costa del Sol on Christmas Eve. 

Police are investigating reports that Gabriel Diya, 52, and his 16-year-old son Praise-Emmanuel Diya died while trying to rescue his sister Comfort Diya, 9, after she got into difficulty. She also died in the tragedy at the Club La Costa World, near Fuengirola. 

Gabriel Diya was a pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God and lived in Charlton, south-east London.  The church said on Facebook that it was praying for the family. 

"With heavy hearts, we extend our condolences to the family, parish, friends and associates of Area Pastor Gabriel Diya who sadly passed away, along with two of his children... in a tragic incident while on a family holiday in Spain," the church said. 

"At this very difficult time, our prayers are for Pastor Gabriel Diya's family, the parishes that were under his supervision, friends, associates, members of RCCG and the general public," the post added.

Mr Diya is survived by his wife, assistant pastor Olubunmi Diya, and another daughter.

Neighbour Lara Atkins told the BBC that everyone was shocked by the deaths and that the family were "very religious, very friendly, very humble".

She said: "I still can't comprehend it, it's still shocking.

"They are so nice, that is why everybody is shocked... we are very friendly with each other."

The owners of Club La Costa World said the resort was cooperating with authorities investigating "this appalling tragedy".

"Naturally, we will continue to offer every assistance and comply fully and transparently with any requests made by them," it said. 

"At the same time, we are doing everything possible to provide care and support to bereaved family members and to all our other guests." 

The pool has since re-opened.