A fundraising campaign has been launched following the tragic deaths of three sisters whose bodies were recovered off Brighton beach, with the aim of giving them "the loving and dignified farewell they deserve".

Emergency services were called after concerns were raised for a person's welfare at around 5.45am on May 13, before three bodies were pulled from the water near Madeira Drive.

Sussex Police have identified the women as Jane Adetoro, 36, Christina Walters, 32 and Rebecca Walters, 31, all from the Uxbridge area of London.

In a statement released by their father Joseph on Wednesday, he said there are days when the grief feels "unbearable" but he holds onto the memories they shared and "the bond that death can never take away".

A GoFundMe page has been established with a target of £18,000 to cover funeral costs. Fundraiser organiser Adesoji Adetoro wrote that it was set up on behalf of his brother Joseph and the wider family, noting that they are struggling to come to terms with what has happened.

"No parent should ever have to bury their child, let alone all three," he said. "While trying to process this unimaginable tragedy, my brother is now also faced with the heartbreaking task of arranging three funerals.

"As a family, we simply want to give the girls the loving and dignified farewell they deserve."

Since the fundraiser was launched, more than £3,000 has already been donated. On Wednesday, Joseph paid tribute to his daughters as his joy and strength, and "the beautiful light that filled our family with happiness and love.

"Each of you was unique and precious in your own special way. Your smiles brightened dark days, your laughter brought comfort, and your presence made life more meaningful," he said.

Sussex Police have confirmed there is currently no evidence of criminality or third-party involvement, though specialist detectives are actively working to establish the full facts and circumstances surrounding their deaths.

Hundreds of hours of CCTV footage have been reviewed and enquiries made to businesses and properties in the beach area in an effort to trace the women's final movements, the force confirmed.

Anyone with information is urged to come forward, particularly those who spotted the sisters near the Madeira Drive area between 10pm on 12 May and 5.30am on 13 May.

Chief Superintendent Adam Hays stated the force "will leave no stone unturned" in its investigation to understand what led to the "tragic events of that Wednesday morning".

Following the identification of the women, Brighton and Hove City Council leader Bella Sankey said learning the women were sisters "makes this troubling situation even more heartbreaking".

"My heart goes out their family and their friends," she said.

"Their grief and suffering must feel overwhelming, I hope that they have support in this worst of times.

"Brighton and Hove is grieving too and I would like to again send them our deepest condolences, and our love."