A 73-year-old British man died yesterday afternoon after a tragic dive off Ċirkewwa.

A 32-year-old Hungarian diver who went to his assistance also encountered problems and was injured, according to police.

The incident happened close to the Gozo ferry port.

Both men were taken to hospital after being given first aid onshore.

The Briton suffered cardiac difficulties while the other had a head injury, sources said.

A medical team, Civil Protection rescuers and the police were on the scene.

The Hungarian was later released from hospital police said last night.

Simon Sciberras, chairman of the Professional Diving Schools Association, confirmed that the men had been diving with one of its member schools, though he refused to say which one.

According to Mr Sciberras, the men were certified and experienced divers and the diving school had all the necessary equipment and followed recommended safety procedures.

Several commenters on timesofmalta.com said the sea was rough in the Ċirkewwa area yesterday, with one diver saying he had planned to dive there but he changed plans when he saw the waves.

Mr Sciberras agreed that conditions “weren’t great”, but said the diving school had carried out a risk assessment and deemed the conditions suitable for the ability of its clients.