Police have said a man has died after reportedly leaping into a river to save a struggling child.Police were called at around 7.10pm on Tuesday, June 15, by the Ambulance Service to a report of concern for a man in the river Erme near Station Road, Ivybridge.

It was reported that he went into the water to help a child in difficulty.

Ambulance crews from Derriford, Fire Co-Responders, a BASICS Doctor, Fire crews from Ivybridge and Modbury, and the Specialist Water Rescue Team from Camels Head, and the Devon Air Ambulance also attended.

Kingsbridge Police wrote on social media that: “Despite everyone’s best efforts, a man was pronounced deceased at the scene.

“His next-of-kin are aware. His death is not being treated as suspicious and a file is being prepared for the coroner.

“On behalf of all of the emergency services who attended, we offer our sincere and heartfelt condolences.”A GoFundMe page has been set up for the man, named locally as Reza. Daisy Cooper, who created the fundraiser, wrote on the site: "On Tuesday, 15th June 2021, Reza's step daughter got into some difficulty in the River Erme, located in Long Timber Woods, Ivybridge. "Being the hero Reza was, he jumped in and saved her, but unfortunately was unable to save himself as he was a non-swimmer. "This goes to show how selfless Reza was, and he showed this every day. He leaves behind his girlfriend and 19-month-old little girl, as well as lots of friends and colleagues who all saw him as family. "We are trying to raise funds so Reza can be flown to his home country, to be laid to rest in peace with the presence of the rest of his family."We are also wanting to hold a memorial service for Reza here in Ivybridge so all who knew him can show their love and respect for him."Any donations will be greatly appreciated. Anything extra will go towards helping his girlfriend and their little girl."Anyone wishing to donate can visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/helpgetrezahome?qid=be205a221a3914865a68e60f765d001c