British Mum Emma Slack Drowns in Tragic Holiday Accident in Greece

December 10, 2025

A British mother drowned while on holiday in Greece after going for a swim with her son, an inquest has heard.

Emma Slack, 54, was swimming off the coast of Roda, on the Greek island of Corfu, when she got into difficulty amid powerful wave activity. During the incident, she “lost her footing” and was pulled by a strong undercurrent towards nearby rocks.

Her husband, Rob Slack, attempted to rescue her but also found himself struggling in the rough sea conditions. Despite his efforts, Mrs Slack was swept away, and she later died.

An inquest held in north Wales heard that Mrs Slack was a competent swimmer who would never have knowingly put herself or her son at risk. Senior coroner for north Wales, John Gittins, concluded that her death was accidental, describing the incident as “simply a tragic accident”.

The hearing was told that the family, from Mold in north Wales, had travelled to Corfu in July for a long-awaited summer holiday. Official documentation from Greek authorities referred to “intense wave activity” in the sea at the time of the swim.

Mr Slack told the inquest he believed the beach should have had clearer warning signage or been closed due to the conditions. The coroner noted that other tourists were swimming in the area without incident but confirmed the nearest lifeguard station was unmanned at the time.

While acknowledging concerns about beach safety and signage, Mr Gittins said he did not have the authority to issue a Prevention of Future Deaths report, as the incident occurred outside the UK.

Addressing Mr Slack, who attended the hearing via video link, the coroner said Mrs Slack had taken no undue risks and extended his condolences to the family, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas.

Following her death, tributes poured in online, describing Mrs Slack as a “beautiful inside and out” mother, an “adored wife,” and a “kind, gentle soul” who would be deeply missed by family and friends.