A CHAMPION powerlifter died in a jet ski accident as tributes were paid to the “incredible fight”, an inquest heard.

Jeremy Paynter was on holiday in Spain when the accident took place as he was riding on the watercraft with his partner.

The jet ski tipped over and he was unable to climb back aboard after helping his partner back onto the jet ski, an inquest at Oakwood House in Maidstone heard.

Mr Paynter, from Seabrook near Hythe, was a dad of one seven-year-old daughter and was described as an “honest giant of a man”.

He was on holiday in Alcudia, Majorca when the tragic accident unfolded as the jet ski he and his partner were riding overturned whilst stationary.

Coroner Patricia Harding said: “The information before the court is that he was on a jet ski trip, on a stationary jet ski with his partner, wearing life jackets, when it tipped and they fell into the water.

“He pushed his partner back onto the jet ski but struggled to get on himself.”

The hearing was told Mr Paynter was eventually pulled onto nearby rocks but unable to be revived by emergency services.

His ex-wife, Karen Spencer, posted on Linkedin: “Jeremy was an incredible Dad to our amazing daughter.

“Jeremy was larger than life in every way. He made such an incredible, positive impact on everyone he met.

“I hope that he is looking down now and finally understands how much he is loved by so many people.”

The inquest has been adjourned for a full hearing to examine the circumstances of his death in more detail.