Police probe suspected fund-raising fraud after Ben's death

Ben Quartermaine died after he went missing in the sea near Clacton Pier Credit: Family picture

Police are investigating a suspected fraud in connection with funds being raised in memory of a 15-year-old boy who died after getting into difficulty in the sea.

Ben Quartermaine went missing July 26 after swimming near Clacton Pier. His body was recovered two days later.

Now police say they're investigating an approach to a local charity, asking for help with raising money for Ben's family.

They say they're looking into the 'legitimacy of the fund-raising.'

Ben’s family say anyone wishing to donate in Ben’s memory should contribute to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Clacton police station on 101, quoting reference 42/110392/18. Information can also be given completely anonymously to independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at crimestoppers-uk.org/

15 year old Ben Quartermaine from Clacton-on-Sea died after going for a swim with a friend on Thursday evening. (26 July) His body was eventually found by a member of the public on Saturday morning.

His friend who also got into difficulty was rescued by a lifeboat crew with help from pier staff.