The six-year-old twin from the Braefield estate in Claudy was pronounced dead in the early hours of Thursday, just 36 hours after the family arrived in the Algarve.

Martin and Kelly Sharkey left the village for their summer holiday on Tuesday with Nathan, his twin brother Matthew and younger sibling Christopher. It is understood the family was staying in a rural area, near a man-made reservoir where Nathan was found.

Martin Sharkey tried desperately to save his son before paramedics rushed him to hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Nathan attended Foyle View School in Derry and principal, Dr Michael Dobbins said staff and pupils were shocked and devastated by the tragedy.

Dr. Dobbins said: “Nathan was a great wee boy. He was very much loved by his parents who doted on him. He was a typical six-year-old and he enjoyed life and he loved being with his parents. We’re all devastated. How do you cope with such a terrible tragedy? It’s every parent’s worst nightmare.”

Claudy SDLP Colr. Brenda Stevenson knew Nathan through her work at the speech and language unit at Foyle View. She said nathan’s death had sent shockwaves through the close knit village.

Ms Stevenson said: “Nathan was a lovely wee boy, a typical six-year-old, bright and bubbly. There is utter disbelief and shock. No one can actually believe it has happened.”

Claudy parish priest, Fr. Michael McEldowney spoke with Martin Sharkey on Sunday. He said parishioners had made a special collection through the St. Vincent De Paul to help the family, who have relatives in the Ardmore parish

He said: “Our prayers and sympathy are with the family and I know the parishes of Ardmore and Claudy are there to support them.”