'My boy died a hero': Parents of Owen Jenkins on their son's legacy

The parents of Owen Jenkins, the twelve year old boy who died trying to rescue two girls from the River Trent near Nottingham, say he wanted to be a famous sportsman but will now be a famous hero in his community.

Speaking exclusively to ITV Central, Gary and Nicola Jenkins said they had been overwhelmed by the support of friends and well-wishers. Today, many supporters joined them at their local pub to tie purple ribbons in Owen's memory which will be placed around Beeston where they live.

• Video report by Peter Bearne

The couple say Owen had gone into the water at Beeston Marina to help two friends who had got into trouble as they attempted to swim across the river. His body was discovered on 10th July after a four-hour search by the emergency services.

Mrs Jenkins said Owen always put others by himself and is sure that, had he survived, he would still have done the same thing again. She added that he would have "laughed his socks off" at all the fuss being made about his actions.

Holding back tears, Mr Jenkins described Owen as "a son, a mate, a lot more".

The couple are also calling for better safety measures at the weir where Owen died. Broxtowe Borough Council is meeting with the Canal and River Trust this week to discuss the issue.