A BRITISH couple have died in a tragic scuba diving accident at an idyllic resort they had visited annually for almost two decades.
Retirees Elaine, 70, and Malcolm Richmond, 71, passed away while on holiday at the remote Ellaidhoo island in the Maldives, a location they had visited three times in 2025.
The devoted pair from Inkersall, near Chesterfield, Derbyshire, were celebrating Christmas on the Indian ocean island when they lost their lives.
It’s understood the tragedy occurred while on a scuba diving excursion.
Elaine reportedly died on December 19 while her husband died three days later on December 22.
The Richmonds had enjoyed the festive season in the Maldives for the past 17 years, vacationing in Ellaidhoo a total of 60 times in that time period.
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Pat Scannell from Maldives Holidaymakers confirmed the sad deaths in a statement.
“They will be sadly missed by family and the many friends that they made over their many visits,” she said.
“They were very popular with all the staff they had made friends with and will be sorely missed.”
An inquest into the couple’s deaths is due to be opened at Chesterfield Coroner’s Court on January 30.
The couple’s joint funerals will be held on January 29 in Brimington.
The Maldives – a holiday destination favoured by Sir David and Lady Victoria Beckham – is located southwest of India and Sri Lanka.
Ellaidhoo, located 26 miles from Male is only accessible by seaplane or speed boat and is famed for its crystal waters and spectacular marine life.
It follows the shock discovery of a British yacht owner found dead on his vessel in Thailand.
The shock discovery has thrust a quiet corner of Phuket into the centre of a troubling investigation.
The 69-year-old man – who also held Australian nationality – had not been seen for several days, prompting concern.
Sadly, his body was discovered on his yacht anchored off Khao Khad beach on January 11.
Authorities boarded the Synergy Sydney vessel, which was moored opposite the Veranda Resort Phuket hotel.
The victim was found lying in a bedroom in the bow of the ship.
Police say the body had “significantly decomposed”.
Officers suggest that it indicates he likely had been dead for around two days.
Despite the disturbing scene, investigators said there was no signs of a struggle.
Police Lieutenant Watcharakorn Suwan said: “Regarding the reported news, we were informed by a hotel employee.
“We are currently investigating, gathering evidence, and awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause of death.
“We have not ruled out the possibility of an unnatural death.”